What to read, watch, and listen to if you lovedPaddington
Paul King · Film · 2014
If you loved Paddington, start with Paddington Bear (Michael Bond, 1958) — a book from the same story. Below: 4 books, 4 series and 2 podcasts, each matched to Paddington across media.
If you loved Paddington, you will appreciate these stories about outsiders finding belonging and kindness in unexpected new families.
Start with the source
Adaptation
Paddington 2
Paul King · Film · 2017
Books on the same thread
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
J. K. Rowling · Book · 1997
Explores: Good vs. Evil, Orphanhood, Friendship.
Like Paddington, Harry finds himself an orphan navigating an unfamiliar world, eventually discovering a supportive community that helps him embrace his true identity and worth among new friends.
Where the Wild Things Are
Maurice Sendak · Book · 2009
Explores: Imagination, Anger Management, Adventure.
Much like the gentle spirit of Paddington, this story captures the emotional complexity of a young protagonist searching for a sense of belonging and understanding in a vast world.
Noddy
Enid Blyton · Book · 1949
Explores: Toy Stories, Adventure, Friendship.
Just as Paddington seeks a home in London, Noddy sets out to build a new life in Toyland, highlighting the courage required to find one's place in a strange environment.
Pinocchio
Carlo Collodi · Book · 1996
Explores: Transformation, Redemption, Consequences.
Pinocchio shares the classic fish-out-of-water journey seen in Paddington, as a unique character navigates the challenges of social integration while trying to understand his place in the world.
Series on the same thread
SPY x FAMILY
Series · 2022
Shares a thread with Paddington: Fish Out of Water.
The unconventional household in this series mirrors the way the Brown family welcomes a bear into their home, proving that found families are often stronger than traditional ones.
Adventure Time
Pendleton Ward · Series · 2010
Explores: Friendship, Coming of Age, Existentialism.
The deep bond between Finn and Jake echoes the heart of Paddington, focusing on how unwavering friendship and mutual support make every adventure feel like a safe journey home.
Ted Lasso
Jason Sudeikis · Series · 2020
Explores: Optimism, Underdog Story, Cultural Clash.
Ted Lasso mirrors the optimistic, polite demeanor of Paddington, proving that kindness and decency can bridge deep cultural divides and transform the lives of everyone in a skeptical community.
Hunter x Hunter
Series · 2011
Explores: self-discovery, overcoming adversity, friendship.
Similar to Paddington embarking on his journey from Peru, this young protagonist ventures into a vast world to find his father, relying on kindness and friendship to overcome adversity.
Podcasts on the same thread
THE ADAM BUXTON PODCAST
ADAM BUXTON · Podcast
Explores: east anglia, family life, dog ownership.
This podcast captures the same gentle, humorous, and rambling warmth found in the world of Paddington, focusing on the simple, meaningful connections made through conversation and shared daily experiences.
The Adventure Zone
The McElroys · Podcast · 2026
Explores: improvised storytelling, group dynamics, high fantasy satire.
The collaborative spirit of this show captures the same sense of camaraderie seen in Paddington, proving that even the most unlikely groups can form a loving family through adventure.
Keep exploring
Common questions
What order should I watch the Paddington movies in?
You should begin with the 2014 film Paddington, which introduces the bear arriving in London. After finishing that story, you can continue with the sequel, Paddington 2, released in 2017, which follows his further adventures with the Brown family.
Is Paddington based on a book?
Yes, Paddington is based on the original children's book titled Paddington Bear, which was first published in 1958. The movie adaptations draw from the character and world established in this classic source material.
Does the 2014 Paddington movie follow the book's plot?
The 2014 film Paddington adapts the core premise of the 1958 book Paddington Bear. It focuses on the young Peruvian bear traveling to London to find a home and his subsequent meeting with the Brown family at Paddington Station.
Should I watch Paddington 2 after the first movie?
Yes, Paddington 2 is the direct follow-up to the 2014 film Paddington. Watching them in chronological order allows you to follow the bear's journey as he settles into life in London with the Brown family.