Kung Fu Panda 4 Review: Jack Black and Awkwafina Bring Humor in a Fun Adventure, Despite Falling Short of Franchise Excellence”

‘Kung Fu Panda 4’ has been released, introducing new characters and continuing the story of Po, the beloved panda with a passion for food. The movie retains its charm for both adults and children, featuring vibrant visuals and thrilling action sequences.

It has been more than ten years since we were introduced to Po, the adorable, goofy panda who struggles with meditation due to thoughts of ‘peas in sesame sauce’ . When ‘Kung Fu Panda’ debuted in 2008, it exceeded expectations, surprising audiences worldwide with its success despite initial doubts about a film featuring Jack Black voicing a laid-back panda. As the movie resonated with audiences beyond the Asian community, it became evident that the franchise had struck gold.

Now, after 16 years, the fourth movie in the series has been released, introducing new characters like Viola Davis as the sorceress Chameleon, Awkwafina as Zhen the corsac fox, along with Lori Tan Chinn, Ke Huay Quan, and Ronny Chieng in different roles. Throughout the franchise, Po’s character has been defined by his knack for silliness, even in serious situations. The films’ success has stemmed from their ability to entertain both adults and children alike.

Plot unveiling :The Narrative of Kung Fu Panda 4 Unfolds

Directed by Mike Mitchell and Stephanie Ma Stine, and written by Jonathan Aibel, Glenn Berger, and Darren Lemke, Kung Fu Panda 4 marks a pivotal moment in Po’s spiritual evolution. Just three installments after becoming the Dragon Warrior, he faces the task of passing on the Staff of Wisdom to his successor and ascending to the role of Spiritual Leader in the Valley of Peace.

Kung Fu Panda 4 begins with Po fully embracing his role as the Dragon Warrior, assisting his adoptive father Ping and biological father Li Shan at their new restaurant. While taking selfies, his mentor Master Shifu informs him that he must choose the next Dragon Warrior as Po is ready to progress to becoming the spiritual leader of the Valley of Peace. Reluctant to move forward, Po seizes an opportunity for one final adventure upon hearing that Tai Lung (has destroyed a village. However, he soon discovers that it’s not Tai Lung who has returned from the Spirit Realm causing havoc, but an evil sorceress named The Chameleon with nefarious plans to destroy the world using her shape-shifting abilities.

Zhen (Awkwafina), a nimble-fingered fox caught stealing by Po, offers her assistance in apprehending The Chameleon at her lair in Juniper City. Following a lively encounter at a tavern with Granny Boar , Po and Zhen enlist Captain Fish  to transport them to Juniper City. The journey involves numerous pursuits and climactic battles featuring elite Kung Fu warriors from the Spirit Realm, alongside assistance from fierce bunnies and other inhabitants of the mDen of Thieves’ , including leader Han  and Po’s fathers. Ultimately, everything falls into place by the conclusion.

Identifying the Film’s strengths and weaknesses

The film is filled with lively one-liners and Jack Black delivers his usual energetic performance as the dumpling-loving Po. The animation is visually stunning, especially during the thrilling chase scenes in Juniper City and explosive fight sequences. In a season dominated by serious Academy Award-winning films, Kung Fu Panda 4 offers a delightful alternative, where we can enjoy moments like Nicolas Cage riding a motorcycle with his skull on fire or Po’s peaceful meditation turning into a dinner scene with peas, adding a flavorful touch to the entertainment

Awkwafina’s portrayal of Zhen introduces a fresh dynamic to Po’s universe. Her cunning nature contrasts sharply with his boisterous presence. Zhen also serves as a suitable gauge for Po’s current phase of development, as he grapples with reluctance towards change. 

However the absence of the Furious Five leaves a noticeable gap that even the enjoyable new characters struggle to fill. Po’s original gang held a special place in the franchise, and their exclusion feels more contrived than natural. While it’s understandable for Po to explore new connections, the silent appearances of his former companions serve as a constant reminder of the potential this movie could have had if they had been integrated into the storyline. Their cameos come across as forced rather than seamlessly integrated. Viola Davis’s performance as Chameleon disappointingly lacks the captivating charm typical of memorable villains. This is despite her numerous transformations into various sizes and stylish red-carpet-inspired outfits

Is it time for Kung Fu Panda to step aside and make room for something new, fearing that it might lose its appeal? Perhaps not. Jack Black’s portrayal of Po still has plenty of charm left, and the potential of seeing him confront greater challenges alongside Zhen and the Furious Five is quite promising. What Kung Fu Panda might benefit from is a fresh perspective, a new director who could act as Po’s Master Shifu, urging him to embark on fresh adventures, both in terms of physical feats and spiritual growth. For further details you can refer this Hindu article.