Po makes a comeback 15 years after the start of the franchise and eight years after ‘Kung Fu Panda 3’. Fans can expect more of the slick, fast-paced, gorgeously animated fun they are accustomed to, but there isn’t a drastic change in direction for this resurrection.
Rekindling memories
Rekindling memories, we are introduced to a panda named Po who is a clumsy glutton and a kung fu expert. Despite his lack of commitment to his craft, he is regarded as China’s greatest fighter and was chosen as the “Dragon Warrior.”
He is the saviour of numerous endangered animals, the adopted son of a goose, and the pupil of a frustrated red panda. In every instalment, Po battles a cunning villain who is trying to rise to the top of the world’s power structures. This time, it’s Chameleon, a lizard with the ability to change shape and who aspires to become the most powerful criminal boss the world has ever seen.
Po has a sidekick on this journey, and it seems that he is considering the possibility of a future franchise.
The fox Zhen is a thief who only cares about herself. She is also a very skilled combatant. Zhen is not interested in collaborating with others, but after Po releases her from prison, she agrees to accompany him in his search for the Chameleon. Po is getting ready to give the Dragon Warrior title to a new person. Where would he be able to locate the perfect applicant? ‘Kung Fu Panda 4’ may just hold the answer to this question.
Compared to the previous, opulent movie, ‘Kung Fu Panda 4’ is more simplified. The canvas feels a little smaller, the fight scenes are a little less spectacular, and the star cast has been reduced. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Under the capable direction of Mike Mitchell of the ‘Trolls’ and ‘The Lego Movie’ fame, it functions effectively as an action-buddy-comedy.
Awkwafina and Jack Black work well together. If future movies depend on her, she seems more than capable of handling the pressure. The film’s extremely thin plot leaves plenty of room for large-scale comedic set pieces such as a police chases through a criminal city or a bar fight in a tavern perched on a cliff. Unfortunately, Viola Davis doesn’t get as many laughs as Chameleon. However, she adds a great deal of sinister gravity to the character’s diminutive frame.
With the apparent intention of wrapping up the plot, the previous ‘Kung Fu Panda’ film pushed the series into more epic territory. By doing this, it is hedging its bets and laying the groundwork for several potential future film projects. It’s enjoyable despite being safe and reasonably predictable.
Vibrant and entertaining visuals
As usual, the true heroes here are the animators in this movie. The film’s major action sequences are its strongest points. Utilising cutting-edge technology, the creators have kept the text straightforward while concentrating more on creating vibrant and entertaining visuals.
Some blunders include three adorable but seriously insane bunnies and a pelican character that is controlled by a fish in its mouth. To make up for their absence, the film sets Po against all of his former foes, Tai Lung, Lord Shen and General Kai, who are brought back to life by the evil Chameleon. Unfortunately, that wish has not been realised. Even a hint of Grand Master Oogway’s return would have been greatly appreciated.
The franchise’s newcomers are captivating, but the classics like Tigress, Viper, Monkey, Mantis, and Crane are sorely missed.
‘Kung Fu Panda 4’ is undoubtedly a mixed bag in the end. We are left wondering whether there is anything novel about it. Even though it lacks the emotional resonance of the original, it still manages to amuse you and make you support the protagonist. It is still a fun 94-minute ride that appeals to franchise fans by skillfully fusing humour, action, and heart.
