What’s It About
Po must train a new warrior when he’s chosen to become the spiritual leader of the Valley of Peace. However, when a powerful shape-shifting sorceress sets her eyes on his Staff of Wisdom, he suddenly realizes he’s going to need some help. Teaming up with a quick-witted corsac fox, Po soon discovers that heroes can be found in the most unexpected places.
MOVIESinMO REVIEW
In Kung Fu Panda 4, the much-loved franchise makes a fantastic comeback after eight years. This time, The Furious Five are off doing their hero stuff elsewhere, making room for a new character, Zhen the Fox, expertly voiced by Awkwafina. Zhen is a cunning thief who ends up helping Po, our ever-evolving panda hero, now tasked with becoming the Spiritual Leader in the Valley of Peace by his mentor, Master Shifu (voiced by Dustin Hoffman). However, Po is more interested in adventure than spirituality. The film introduces us to an evil shapeshifting sorceress, The Chameleon, voiced by Viola Davis, who’s after a magical staff that Po possesses. The staff is key to world domination, and Po and Zhen seek to thwart The Chameleon’s plans. Their journey is filled with danger, humor, and the kind of kung fu action fans love. As Po and Zhen tackle obstacles, including a city of sinister types and the Den of Thieves, they form an unlikely friendship, sharing their stories of growing up orphaned. Meanwhile, Po’s adoptive father, Mr. Ping, and his biological father, Li, team up in a comedic subplot to find Po. The film, set in a fantasy version of China, not only brings new characters but also sees the return of Tai Lung, the villain from the first movie. With impressive fight scenes and a fast-paced storyline, Kung Fu Panda 4 keeps the spirit of the series alive, proving that a gap between sequels doesn’t have to mean a drop in quality. The voice cast, including Jack Black as Po and Awkwafina as Zhen, adds depth and humor to their roles, making this sequel a hit for fans old and new. While it may not be an award-winner, Kung Fu Panda 4 is a fun ride that successfully continues the legacy of Po and his adventures.
OUR RATING – A WISDOM INSPIRED 7