the legend continues

Rating: 9/10 (8 January 2012)

Our story begins at a time when the Peacock Clan ruled Gongmen City. The heir to the throne, Lord Shen (Gary Oldman), is informed by a Soothsayer (Michelle Yeoh) of a prophecy in which a warrior of black and white will defeat him. Shen, believing he could outsmart the prophecy, oversees the slaughter of all pandas. Discovering what their son has done, Shen's parents banish him from the City.
Many years pass, The Dragon Warrior Po (Jack Black) along with the Furious Five, consisting of Tigress (Angelina Jolie); Mantis (Seth Rogan); Monkey (Jackie Chan); Crane (David Cross); and Viper (Lucy Liu), have become the protectors of the Valley of Peace. As Shen plans to retake Gongmen City, using a powerful new weapon, orders his henchmen to steal all the metal from the surrounding areas. A pack of bandits invade the Valley and meet resistance from our heroes. Po, spotting a symbol on the armor of one of the bandits, has flashbacks to his youth with his real parents. Po and the Five, in hopes of saving all of China, travel to the Gongmen city; however Po's journey includes one of self importance as he hopes to discover where he came from, and to achieve the inner peace he so desires.
Dreamworks Animation has come a very long way since Shrek. In earlier years there were too many adult innuendos incorporated into their movies. Although the films were entertaining, parents were presented with a level of discomfort when allowing their younger children to view such films. The same cannot be said for Megamind, How to Train Your Dragon, and Kung Fu Panda. These movies are enjoyable by children of all ages, and adults alike. The innuendos are gone, and replaced by wholesome stories, beautiful backgrounds, and wonderful characters that are easy to relate too, and learn from. Kung Fu Panda 2 continues this trend with a welcome addition to the story of Po and the Furious Five. The comedic style and warmth that Jack Black brings to Po makes the character lovable and innocent. Gary Oldman is perfectly cast as the evil Lord Shen, bringing a welcome nastiness.
My seven year old son and I viewed the movie in 3D enjoying the experience immensely. Although the 3D glasses darken the brightness of the film, the picture jumps off the screen. I believe the animation is more enjoyable when viewed in 3D (not necessarily IMAX). Kung Fu Panda 2 is filled with martial-arts action and is a throwback to the old kung-fu movies I watched with my own father as a kid. My only hope is that Dreamworks continues to make more movies of this quality so I can continue to enjoy these experiences together with my own children.
Summer Movie Grade: A
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