19 Oct - The first live-action version of "Paddington" was no doubt a charming family-friendly entertainment that managed to turn the modestly-budgeted movie into box-office gold. Last year, Paul King has confirmed his return to direct the sequel, "Paddington 2". Now, according to a statement released by producer David Heyman and StudioCanal on "Paddington's" official website, the sequel is officially rolling into production. Aside from the familiar faces from the first movie, fans will also get to see some newly-added cast members. Hugh Grant ("The Man From U.N.C.L.E.") and Brendan Gleeson ("In The Heart Of The Sea") have joined alongside returning cast, which includes Hugh Bonneville, Julie Walters, Jim Broadbent, Sally Hawkins, Peter Capaldi, Samuel Joslin and Madeleine Harris. Ben Whishaw and Imelda Staunton are reprising their voice performances respectively as Paddington and Aunt Lucy in the sequel as well. Grant will be playing Phoenix Buchanan, who is a Windsor Gardens' local celebrity. He is also described as a "vain and charming acting legend who has fallen on hard times". Brendan Gleeson will play "Knuckles" McGinty, a "notorious safe-cracker and legendary strongman" who is unexpectedly becoming Paddington's new ally. As for the plot, "Paddington 2" again revolves around the titular bear, who has now happily settled with the Brown family in Windsor Gardens. He even becomes a popular member of the community. When Paddington discovers a perfect gift for his Aunt Lucy's 100th birthday, he ends up working in a series of odd jobs to buy it. Trouble arises when the gift gets stolen and this is where the adventure begins. "Paddington 2" is scheduled for release by the end of 2017.