Kung Fu Panda Review

The title says everything doesn't it? I mean how much can I possibly write about a film entitled “Kung Fu Panda”? There can't really be any subtext in this film, there's no chance of this bringing you enlightenment and changing your life, and as far I can see no real reason to laugh after you've gotten over the initial concept. However I suppose that I'd better give this a fair review, otherwise all the Jack Black fans (a joke in itself) out there will come tear me to pieces.

The plot of the film follows the panda Bo (Jack Black), as he trains to become the Dragon Warrior, a Kung Fu master capable of killing the evil snow leopard Tai Lung (also a master of Kung Fu), all of which makes perfect sense when put in the context of this film. Now I assume that any reasonable adult will, upon hearing the plot of this film transcribed in the manner that I just have, assume that Kung Fu Panda is both non-educational and morally bankrupt. Let me assure them that neither statement is true, and that Kung Fu Panda offers both the wholesome morals that any children's film should, and a beginner's guide to the teachings of the philosophys behind the martial art of Kung Fu. All in all the plot manages to hold up against my scrutiny. It's quite well scripted, features some amusing scenes, and has a genuine moral undertone.

The animation in Kung Fu Panda is nothing less than what you would expect from a film by Dreamworks (a jaw dropping symphony of colour and technical accuracy, a dream work (excuse the horrible, horrible pun) if you will), and neither is the voice acting. I was actually astounded at how good Jack Black (Be Kind Rewind, School of Rock, and Tenacious D: The Pick of Destiny) was in this film; mainly because he was so unlike himself. Not to discount the other voice actors in the film, who all give good performances.

Ultimately I'm fairly uninformed about the genre that this film slides into, being slightly to old to care about it anymore. I suppose I'd recommend it as it will certainly keep children happy, and it isn't to difficult for older audiences to sit through. However if you are of an age older than ten, and have no reason to go and see this film other than mild curiosity, I'd recommend that you go and see The Dark Knight instead, even if you've already seen it.

7/10