Kung Fu Panda 4 Review: Skadoosh Your Way from Home, To The Spirit Realm, and To Juniper City!

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Copyright © DreamWorks Animation, Universal Pictures


Title: Kung Fu Panda 4
Director: Mike Mitchell

Sequel to: Kung Fu Panda 3

Release Date: March 8 2024


    Do not worry anymore! Po returns in "Kung Fu Panda 4," the newest installment of the all-time famous Kung Fu Panda movie franchise. In this sequel, Po has to transition from Dragon Warrior to the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace, but he is not sure about it yet. Suddenly, he partners up with a fox, Zhen, in order to defeat the Chameleon who is a shape-shifting sorceress unlike any other. Packed up to the brim with messages, splendid characters, and outstanding animation, "Kung Fu Panda 4" is definitely your go-to return to the Valley of Peace.


Summary

    Po (Jack Black) to step up from the Dragon Warrior to the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace. However, he does not know which worthy successor should be his successor. When the shapeshifting sorceress, the Chameleon (Viola Davis), threatens the Valley, he teams up with a sneaky fox, Zhen (Awkwafina), on a daring adventure to take this nefarious villainess down. Throughout the journey of mystical realms and the busy cities, Po learns about the true meaning of leadership.


Reasons

    The powerful punches would be the messages and characters. There are a lot of good messages from the movie that will resonate viewers of all ages. Anyone can learn to grow from the old things, have potential no matter their background, trusting others, working together, etc. However, the two first messages are important to the story because of how Po advances to becoming a leader of the valley. All of the characters were beyond any doubt. Po (Jack Black) still owns his heart and humor as he becomes the spiritual leader in his compelling arc. Zhen (Awkwafina), the new fox character, has the likability and skills to take over the role of the Dragon Warrior, despite her troubled past. The Chameleon (Viola Davis) is another new character who is a thrilling villain with a humorous and clever defeat. Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman), even with diminished screentime, is still splendid as ever as he continues guiding Po to even more greatness by turning him into a leader.
    Some more powerful punches from this movie would be its animation and story. Its animation keeps continuing the franchise's upward trajectory.. Every single thing, including the action and fur, looks as stunning as ever through a lot of detail and smooth movement. The fighting is so well done to the point it has consequences of both funny and epic. In addition, the animation is also stylized with anime elements and traditional ink brush strokes to further enhance the movie. All of the character designs are perfect. When making character designs, DreamWorks is not afraid to experiment new things. Its incredible story is packed with a lot of humor, twists, and heartwarming moments. The humor is so well-written and plodded in every scene possible. If a twist comes up, it is absolutely well-written, causing its fantastic adventure to realistically go up and down. 
    Would there be anything to criticize about it? Even the best movies have its flaws, so it is a yes. Some might find the story to be a little bit predictable for anyone who is not familiar with how the franchise goes. While the humor was thoroughly amazing, a small portion of jokes can be a bit cheesy for some people. Jack Black's cover of "...Baby One More Time" does sound questionable as the sequel's theme. However, it ultimately fits the franchise's intense tone. It is nice for Jack Black to cover a song for the franchise again after teaming up with CeeLo Green for "Kung Fu Fighting" for the first movie.



Conclusion

    "Kung Fu Panda 4" is your perfect all-age go-to return to the Valley of Peace. Firstly, this sequel tells us to allow growth and also to embrace our potential. Every character, major and minor, shines with likability and humor. Its animation, as a whole, is a visual feast (like Po's dumplings). Lastly, the story is as incredible as expected for its balance on both light and dark. Whether you are a new or old fan of Kung Fu Panda, definitely watch this masterpiece! Get ready to feel the thunder!


    Score: 10/10 (off the awesomeness scale!)



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