After an eight-year hiatus, Po is back in a darker, uneven Kung Fu Panda
FILM REVIEW
Kung Fu Panda 4
2.5 out of 4 stars
Rudy S.
Headliner Chicago
Kung Fu Panda 4
2.5 out of 4 stars
Rudy S.
Headliner Chicago
We've patiently waited for a new Kung Fu Panda movie for the past 8 years. This time Po (voiced by Jack Black) returns, but is faced with the dilemma of giving up the role of Dragon Warrior and picking a successor. Not excited about the challenge, Po finds himself tangled in a situation where duty calls. Po encounters a fox named Zhen (voiced by Awkwafina) who is an orphan turned thief and teaches Po to not trust anyone.
The two then embark on a journey to find The Chameleon (voiced by Viola Davis) who is a shapeshifter who will stop at nothing to gain power and bring back every villain that Po has ever faced. Expect to see a cameo from Tai Lung, the snow leopard from the first film, but if you're hoping for big scenes with the Furious Five, you're out of luck. Tigress, Viper, Monkey, Crane & Mantis are barely featured in this film, although do get mentioned quite a bit during the movie.
The movie takes a buddy-film turn as Po and Zhen make their way to Juniper City to find and stop The Chameleon. This new character is ruthless and never shies away from her intentions no matter how evil they may be. I really enjoyed the new villain and what this character does for this film. I wish other franchises would take note when you find a way to move the story forward but also celebrate past fan favorites utilizing a character like The Chameleon.
The franchise can move in one or two ways, either putting a bow on this story or make way for part 5. Both scenarios are feasible and only time will tell the legacy of Kung Fu Panda.
A generation of fans has grown up with this franchise and I can't imagine this would be the end. The film is a little darker and more suspenseful than previous installments, and might be scary at times for those 5 and under.
The franchise can move in one or two ways, either putting a bow on this story or make way for part 5. Both scenarios are feasible and only time will tell the legacy of Kung Fu Panda.
A generation of fans has grown up with this franchise and I can't imagine this would be the end. The film is a little darker and more suspenseful than previous installments, and might be scary at times for those 5 and under.
Kung Fu Panda 4
opens in theaters nationwide on Friday, March 8
opens in theaters nationwide on Friday, March 8