“Kung Fu Panda 2” has just won its way into my heart and into my ranks as one of the best kung fu movies of my generation. It allays my complaints of the first “Kung Fu Panda.” As, for a kung fu movie, the first film seemed to have a lack of fighting. Sure, it was a heart-warming coming of age story, but it was not the over top goodness that one expects from such a flick. In comparison, “Kung Fu Panda 2” comes out karate chops a blazin’. Over the top action moves from scene one, obvious inspiration from classic films alongside improvements, and an increase in the general wackiness of the action sequences due to the fact it is animated and not so grounded in reality are a few of the things you can expect. This, combined with another heart warming tale, Po’s back story, a menacing villain, well timed humor, captivating animation, and fantastic voice work creates an on-screen spectacle that will surely bring a smile to one’s face, young and old alike.
Shen The Peacock (voiced by Gary Oldman) makes for a profound and merciless villain. The subtle evil that radiates from this character sends chills down the viewer’s spine. This reaction is drawn from the simple fact that his evil stems from innocence and an entanglement of fear about his own fate. Shen is fighting against his fate by trying to end kung fu with a militia using destructive technology and it is up to the dragon warrior and the furious five to defeat him. Po (Jack Black once again is brilliant as the voice actor) has slimed down and has learned some new moves since the first film. Tigress (voiced by Angelina Jolie) is put more into the spotlight alongside the rest of the furious five (voices of Seth Rogen, Jackie Chan, David Cross, and Lucy Liu), who in the first film deserved more screen time.
The art and graphics of this film have improved as well, including flash back scenes told in a 2D animated fashion, and some cell shaded effects. The director, Jennifer Yuh, once again outdoes herself by breathing new life into how computer animated films are made, as well as making a fine kung fu movie. It reminded me a lot of one of my all-time favorite kung fu films: “Kung Fu Hustle” (which is a huge compliment). By striking a delicate and perfect blend of over the top action, yet keeping it grounded enough to be fantastically believable, the humor, unlikely protagonists, and nods to historic kung fu films allow this movie to carve its own path into kung fu greatness. Now, the movie is not without its flaws. Obviously, its chief demographic is children, so there are some groan inducing gags to tolerate. It seemed to move fairly fast, and could have benefited from some more introduction. Furthermore, some voice acting was not as strong as the others (for example, David Cross and Seth Rogen). This movie is far more epic and grander than its predecessor, which make it superior in many ways, but how can one top a surprise hit? You cannot. Instead, you improve and move along, which this film does flawlessly. This film is like watching a kung fu master dressed as clown paint an epic tale with vivid detail and technique. Pandas rule! Skadoosh!
By V-Dawg
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