Actress Yoshida Hitsuji made headlines on March 10, 2025, during the public recording event for the highly anticipated film "Paddington: The Mystery of the Vanished Golden Village," set to hit theaters nationwide on May 9, 2025. This latest installment features the beloved bear Paddington embarking on another exciting adventure, this time to Peru, to locate his missing Aunt Lucy.
During the event, Yoshida not only participated in live dubbing but also showcased her vocal talent by performing one of Clarissa's songs – the character she voices, the director of the old home where Paddington visits. This marking of her role as Clarissa was significant, considering the character's importance to the narrative, described as bright and kind yet harboring secrets.
Yoshida appeared dressed in gray attire reminiscent of the nuns, reflecting her character's background. She expressed her enthusiasm for the role, stating, "Being part of this project felt like fate!" She recalled her summer study abroad experience last year when her host family recommended the Paddington films as pedagogical tools for learning English. This fondness for Paddington blossomed as she revisited London, frequently passing through Paddington Station and even visiting Gruber’s shop on Portobello Road, which is featured prominently in the film.
Her excitement was palpable as she performed her sung lines, admitting to feeling nervous just before. "Yesterday night, I practiced quite a bit," she shared with a smile. Concerning the song she sang, she mentioned, "Singing high notes is easier for me. This upbeat tune is about welcoming Paddington to Peru filled with anticipation. I hope my enjoyment translates through my performance." Her stunning rendition drew applause from the audience, underscoring her capability beyond just voice acting.
The event also featured the surprise appearance of Paddington himself, who presented Yoshida with flowers. Overwhelmed with delight, she exclaimed, "Thank you so much! Can I get a hug?" This charming moment captured the hearts of attendees as Yoshida beamed with joy, interacting with the character as if he were truly alive.
Reflecting on her character, Yoshida believes Clarissa’s role is complex. Described as both supportive and slightly ambiguous, she said of Clarissa, "I think she’s ideal for her role, but there feels like there’s something hidden beneath her warm demeanor." The film's narrative certainly allows for such characters, making it engaging not just for children but also for adult viewers who appreciate layered storytelling.
The actress’s connection to Paddington reflects not just professional enthusiasm but also shared personal experiences, as she described how the film provided her with insights on emotional expression through its storytelling. This alignment with her own appreciation for the character culminated when the casting call came, which she now sees as serendipitous.
Fans of the Paddington series can anticipate this newest adventure as it promises not only the beloved humor and charm of previous films but also new contexts and culturally rich backdrops, like the jungles of Peru. Yoshida's portrayal could resonate deeply, merging the spirit of Paddington with the warmth of Japanese storytelling.
The event itself emphasized the growing popularity of cultural phenomena like Paddington, bridging gaps between generations and making international connections through shared stories. Yoshida concluded her time on stage enthusiastically welcoming Paddington’s arrival, sending out good cheer as she said, "You came all the way from London? Don’t forget to stop by some delicious sushi restaurants! I know you’ll love the salmon!" This light-hearted interaction captured the event's spirit – one of joy, creativity, and cultural connection.
"Paddington: The Mystery of the Vanished Golden Village" teases adventures and heartfelt reunions, ensuring its position as another favorite for both young audiences and those young at heart. With Yoshida’s talent at the helm of its Japanese voice cast, this film is sure to be embraced by existing fans of Paddington and likely to inspire new ones once it’s released.