Kung Fu Panda 4 Movie Review

The Kung Fu Panda 4 movie is a joyous return to panda-mania! See it in theaters beginning this Friday, March 8th. Read our no-spoiler review below.

I was invited as media to cover this event. All opinions are my own.

About the film:

After three death-defying adventures defeating world-class villains with his unmatched courage and mad martial arts skills, Po, the Dragon Warrior (Golden Globe nominee Jack Black), is called upon by destiny to become the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace.

That poses a couple of obvious problems. First, Po knows as much about spiritual leadership as he does about the paleo diet, and second, he needs to quickly find and train a new Dragon Warrior before he can assume his new lofty position.

Even worse, there’s been a recent sighting of a wicked, powerful sorceress, Chameleon (Oscar® winner Viola Davis), a tiny lizard who can shapeshift into any creature, large or small. And Chameleon has her greedy, beady little eyes on Po’s Staff of Wisdom.

So, Po’s going to need some help. He finds it (kinda?) in the form of crafty, quick-witted thief Zhen (Golden Globe winner Awkwafina), a corsac fox who gets under Po’s fur but whose skills will prove invaluable. In their quest to protect the Valley of Peace from Chameleon’s reptilian claws, this comedic odd-couple duo will have to work together. In the process, Po will discover that heroes can be found in the most unexpected places.

What sets the Kung Fu Panda 4 movie apart from its predecessors is its willingness to delve deeper into the emotional core of its characters. While the film still delivers plenty of high-flying action and loads of humor, it also takes the time to explore the complexities of Po’s character, delving into his insecurities and doubts in a way that feels authentic and relatable.

While Dreamworks delivers stunning animation with breathtaking landscapes and intricately choreographed fight scenes, my favorite part is the message within the film about staying true to one’s self.

Returning with all the charm, humor, and heart that made its predecessors beloved by audiences of all ages, this latest installment once again proves that there’s always more wisdom to be gleaned from the furry inhabitants of the Valley of Peace.