As the new Dragon Warrior has risen through the ranks from a young unlikely hero to a kind strong leader, the valley has prospered. The defeat of the criminal forces that threatened the lands, by the Furious Five and the Dragon Warrior have rescued the people from certain death. Now with the evil behind them all, a successor needs to be found and allow the Dragon Warrior to become the spiritual leader of the valley of peace.
With life in the valley restored to a peaceful time, Po (Jack Black), a giant panda and Dragon Warrior, has become very popular and famous to all the locals. Using that new fame, Po’s adoptive father, Mr. Ping (James Hong), a Chinese goose who is an excellent chef, and his biological father, Li Shan (Bryan Cranston), who Po found on one of his journey’s, are opening a new restaurant that is being sponsored by the Dragon Warrior.
When Po finds out from Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman) , a wise red panda and Po’s master, that he needs to find his successor and renounce his title as the Dragon Warrior, to become the spiritual leader of the people. Po is hesitant and also conflicted, because he loves his life as a hero and the fame that comes with it, but also understands that he needs to grow and become what he is meant to be. During this time of decision, Po notices that there is a thief in the temple. Here he discovers Zhen (Awkwafina), a corsac fox who is a wanted thief. During their fight, Zhen convinces Po that there is a wicked villain called The Chameleon (Viola Davis), a nefarious chameleon sorceress that can copy the kung fu of others by absorbing their abilities. As they speak she is summing up his foes from the past like; Tai Lung (Ian McShane).
Tai Lung, a snow leopard that was an adopted son and former disciple of Shifu, found darkness and became sinful terrorizing the countryside. After being vanquished by Po and later sent to the spirit world, Tai Lung has always concerned Po of his return. With fear Po decides to take Zhen’s advice and try to locate the Chameleon.
Director Mike Mitchell develops and displays a hilarious fantastic adventure that keeps you wanting more. Building an outstanding storyline that allows the voice actors to thrive helped keep this narrative alive. Also inserting many hysterical antics throughout keeps the tale riveting. Mike was correct by adding Awkwafina to the journey, because her and Jack Black were perfect together and made it an amazing exploration for all.
This fun-loving saga brings you on a hilarious quest that locates the truth Po is searching for. Adding a new and interesting character to the venture brings double the pleasure for everyone to see. It is worth bringing the kids to see this on the big screen and have an incredible time with your family.
Final Comment: I based my grade on the the storyline, wonderful animated special effects, the funny events along the way, and a spectacular performance by the voice actors.
Stars 4 out of 5
Additional Film Information
Cast: Jack Black, Awkwafina, Viola Davis, Dustin Hoffman, James Hong, Bryan Cranston, Ke Huy Quan, and Ian McShane.
Directed by: Mike Mitchell
Genre: Animated, Action, Adventure, Comedy, Family, and Fantasy.
MPAA Rating: Rated PG for martial arts action/mild violence, scary images and some mild rude humor.
Running Time: 1 hour and 34 minutes.
Release Date: March 8, 2024
Distributed By: Universal Pictures
Release In: Dolby Digital, Dolby Atmos, IMAX, Digital 3D, and Standard.
