This past weekend we gathered the clan in the family room and plugged in the new comedy from Dreamworks, Kung Fu Panda. This film features the voice talents of a star-studded cast, Jack Black, Dustin Hoffman, Angelina Jolie, and Jackie Chan, to name a few. In our family, we like to find a film every now and then that all of us will enjoy; animated movies usually fill the bill, and this was no exception.
The animation is very well done, and blended with the amazing voice talent and an engaging storyline, made the film entertaining from start to finish. The tale follows the dreams of a young panda, Po, who has grown up working in his family’s noodle shop in the Valley of Peace, secretly idolizing the Furious Five – Tigress, Crane, Mantis, Viper and Monkey — under the leadership of their Sensei, a Lemur named Master Shifu. Po dreams of being a Kung Fu master, even as his father dreams of his one day growing up and assuming control of the noodle business.
There are no really new or innovative plot twists in this film. It’s the story of a young man with dreams who gets the opportunity to fulfill them. While there is a lot of buffoonery on the part of Po (Jack Black), there is also a very heart-warming message permeating the script. There is no effort to make great changes in the protagonist, but instead an effort to help him understand and have faith in himself. The issues of parental projection of values and dreams is addressed as is that age-old chestnut about judging a book (or a Panda) by its cover.
We thoroughly enjoyed the film, from parents down to five-year old Katie. Finding time and experiences that the entire family can enjoy grows more difficult as the dispartity in ages increases, and the older children begin to branch out into lives of their own. It’s important to find a way to bridge the gaps and share some smiles; moments like this are special. Here’s to Po, the true Dragon Master.
{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }
This is one of my favorites now as well David. My girls love the show. The voice talent, as you stated, is amazing. Jack Black was perfect for this part as were many others. The secret ingredient of the Scrolls is a great message (don’t want to spoil it for anyone) for kids to learn (and adults).
Yes…though for those old Kung Fu movie addicts who remember the David Carradine flick “Circle of Iron” you’ll be able to guess the secret… Wonderful movie.
Ska-doosh!
My daughters have watched this twice, and both time have talked about how they need to follow their dreams and find their passions to be truly successful life. If only I knew for myself!
My daughter Erin (6) loved the movie.
It is most full of awesomeness and outstandingness.
Ha ha. We have loved this one also. A lot of cool scenes, especially the fighting ones. Very expressive, yet simple and without .. a lot of violence, if that makes sense.
Chris:
I went with my wife and daughter (7) to see this when it came out. One of our favorite films of 2008.
When we watched it on High Def Blu-Ray at home it was even more amazing. Great review!
Thanks everyone. We watched it first time at home on Blu-Ray…it WAS amazing…
I hope to review more kid-friendly movies here soon.
I am so, so, so addicted to this movie – as are my wife and girls! It’s a great movie, great action, great message and with lines like “The is no charge for awesomeness” you can’t go wrong! -B