Nothing new, but still fresh

Rating: 9/10 (14 June 2008)

Family movies over the past couple of years have digressed into mindless entertainment, save a few examples. The humor has been shallow, nearly non-existent. To me a family movie is something where the entire family enjoy it. The humor appeals to both children (potty humor, slap stick) to the older crowd (CLEVERLY disguised innuendo and classic media references). I would argue that Family movies are the most difficult genre to work in, because one must successfully strike that delicate balance while being neither preachy or boring.
Kung Fu Panda is a worthy entry in to the pantheon of the classics. While I am not arrogant enough to place this one on the level of Disney from the golden age to the Pixar achievements, it makes its own unique contribution to a tired story that has been played out time and time again. The kind hearted, but initially inept subject overcoming their shortcomings is a movie staple. However, its treatment in this story is fresh. The voice actors play their bits wonderfully. While I was aware of a star studded cast going in, they allowed their characters to speak for them rather than vice versa.
So, the contrived plot points are really what hold this movie back. But, the humor with how they are treated allow this to be looked over. Instead, look for the interesting way that clichés are handled. I enjoyed this film. I had fun, and that's what I wanted.