The Copyrights Group, worldwide merchandise agents for Paddington Bear, is delighted to confirm that Warner Bros. Pictures is to make the first live action film of Paddington Bear. The family comedy will be produced by David Heyman, producer of the wildly successful “Harry Potter” film franchise, through his company Heyday Films. Writer Hamish McColl (“Mr. Bean’s Holiday”) has also been chosen to write the film adaptation.

“As Paddington’s 50th anniversary in 2008 approaches, the timing of the agreement with Warner Bros Pictures, couldn’t be better,” commented Nicholas Durbridge, CEO Copyrights Group. “The movie will introduce a new generation to Paddington’s charm and character and remind adults who originally grew up with Paddington about his compulsive curiosity, blithe optimism and sense of wonder - all of which lead him into comic scrapes and yet help deliver him unscathed from the chaos he creates around him.”

Producer, David Heyman added: “Paddington Bear is a universally loved character and I have wanted to bring him to the screen for some years. Above all, I love Paddington’s unique take on life – he is a great comic creation.”

Stephen Durbridge of the London based film and television agents, The Agency (London) Limited, represented the rights holder, Paddington and Company Limited, and the author Michael Bond in the sale of the rights to Warner Brothers.

Karen Jankel of Paddington and Company commented: “Over the years we have received countless enquiries from fans around the world, asking if Paddington would ever make it onto the big screen, but we had to wait until the time was right. We firmly believe that time has now come and we are delighted that, having made the decision to take this next step, Paddington will be in such safe hands as those of David Heyman and Warner Bros.”