After much deliberation, I decided to give myself the go ahead and watch the apparent finale to the Kung Fu Panda saga. It’s easy to have reservations about sequels, especially with their traditional tendency to degrade in quality with each instalment. I’m not suggesting that every film would be like Transformers 4, but it also doesn’t mean they’ll be just like Lord of the Rings. So despite my own hesitance, I decided to give this one a shot and well…
I was wrong.
But before getting into the review, we must first look to the summary: “When Po’s long-lost panda father suddenly reappears, the reunited duo travels to a secret panda paradise to meet scores of hilarious new panda characters. But when the supernatural villain Kai begins to sweep across China defeating all the kung fu masters, Po must do the impossible-learn to train a village full of his fun-loving, clumsy brethren to become the ultimate band of Kung Fu Pandas”. (via 20th Century Fox)
The way the story is told is surprisingly well-paced, and covers many deeper aspects about the hero’s personality and heritage. Unlike the previous film, there is a much lighter atmosphere present during the narrative, which connects really well with its role as a “family film”.
Po spends much of the story exploring and reconnecting with his roots, while the ‘butt kicking’ scenes are mostly left at the hands of his friends. This isn’t to say that Po doesn’t get to see any action, but rather has one that is so awesome it’s hard to even talk about.
Humour is used well during this time around as well, and doesn’t feel very washed or overused. Instead it’s executed with such balance that adults could laugh along with kids, which really shows how the film succeeds in engaging its audience.
The film is both visually and musically stunning, providing updated 3D models that exude colour and vitality. Chinese instruments are used in fitting fashion, enhancing the mood during various scenes of action, comedy and even drama. Plus it’s really cool to hear a newer, hipper rendition of Carl Douglas’ “Kung Fu Fighting”, even if it was a cover by the Vamps (bleh).
For once in a long time, I am able to say that a particular sequel is better than its previous installation. If “The End” is truly the case for this wonderful saga then so be it, the film has exceeded expectation and is a brilliant end to a Kung Fu Panda’s story.
#Peace.Love.KungFuPanda
