Contributed By Theodora Ho
Picking up from where 2008’s hugely successful Kung Fu Panda left off, Po the panda (voiced by comedian Jack Black) is now getting comfortable in his newfound identity as the Dragon Warrior. Along with his martial arts sidekicks, the Furious Five, he is the town’s new ultimate crime-fighting machine—until a piece of his past creeps up on him.
The movie’s prologue flashes back to the truth of what really happened to Po’s people and his parents at the wings of the villainous albino peacock, Lord Shen. As Shen advances his evil plans to overtake all of China, Po has to struggle to unlock the repressed memory of his tragic past in order to defeat him.
Here, the endearing character of Po provides the same classic comedy that made him that gust of fresh air when he first rolled onto the big screens. His clumsiness and dorkiness is equalled only by his determination to stand for righteousness and his loyalty to his friends, family and countrymen.
The film cleverly weaves in themes of friendship, family and identity without taking itself too seriously. With its slapstick gags, banter and constant references to Po’s figure and insatiable appetite, Kung Fu Panda 2 has cinemagoers in stitches almost all of the time. The lush and vibrant animation, paired with creative choreography, makes the fight sequences a spectacular joyride—it’s no exaggeration to say that there was nary a slow moment. It is this potent cocktail of wit and adventure that sends the sequel soaring over the expectations created by the acclaim garnered by its predecessor.
Overall, Kung Fu Panda 2 stays true to its tagline, being awesome, entertaining and heart-warming in equal parts. This is one for both the kids and grown-ups.
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For our review on Pirates Of The Caribbean: On Stranger Tide, click here.
