Dreamworks brings us back to the Valley of Peace in Kung Fu Panda 4 which features the return of Po (Jack Black) who sets out to find his successor as the Dragon Warrior after being chosen to be the new Spiritual Leader. Po teams up with a swift fox named Zhen (Awkwafina) to defeat a shape-shifting sorceress called “The Chameleon” (Viola Davis), who can shapeshift into Po’s former villains.
The franchise has only grown stronger since the first film’s release in 2008. The fourth installment of the franchise made its big screen debut on March 8th, 2024. While the previous three films were charming, this fourth chapter keeps the energy flowing. The streets of Juniper City, far away from the Valley of Peace, offer plenty of action sequences. The chase scenes run from the hustling streets to the rooftops, and down into the underground tunnels which are home to the city’s Den of Thieves.
The film has a stacked cast of new and returning characters. Jack Black returns as Po the Dragon Warrior delivering an energetic performance. Po takes center stage on his journey to choose his Dragon Warrior successor. There are many familiar characters. Dustin Hoffman reprises his role as Po’s mentor, Master Shifu, James Hong returns as Po’s adoptive father, Mr. Ping, and Bryan Craston returns as Li Shan, Po’s biological father. On top of that, Ian McShane reprises his role as Tai Lung, the snow leopard villain from the first film.
Some new faces are introduced, including Zhen, the swift fox voiced by Awkwafina, a thief who tags along with Po on his journey. The Chameleon, voiced by Viola Davis, is a shape shifting villain who can transform into other kung fu masters while absorbing their abilities. Other new voices include Ke Huy Quan, Lori Tan Chinn, and Ronny Chieng.
Colorful animation is the true key to the atmosphere of the film. When the Chameleon transforms, it feels both fluid and fighting at the same time, the animation does a fantastic job defining this character’s power.
Despite the impressive worldbuilding and characters, there are a few flaws. The film’s main message is about accepting changes but there are a few moments that feel predictable. The Chameleon’s backstory feels very run-of-the-mill. The Furious Five are almost completely absent this time around, only making a brief cameo at the end.
The first three installments of the franchise are some of the best films made by Dreamworks. This latest installment will be both a crowd pleaser and a disappointment to longtime fans. However, those who have adored Po’s previous adventures are bound to find this one just as thrilling. Director Mike Mitchell brings this beloved franchise back for another round on the big screen proving that this kick-butt installment of Kung Fu Panda still has some steam left.
