At last, a movie hero I can identify with! Po, the kung fu panda protagonist is made to fight for his dumplings by his Kung Fu master. That's a training technique that could get me motivated!
True to its martial arts roots, Kung Fu Panda (Dreamworks Animation, 92 minutes) is all about action. Whether training or in actual conflict with the evil Tia Lung, Po and the other Kung Fu masters are constantly fighting. Po, THE big fat panda is an unlikely and reluctant hero, having accidentally (and literally) dropped in on a kung fu contest to choose the next dragon warrior. But in the spiritual realm of kung fu, there are not accidents. Po's unlikely selection sets him on a journey to realize a dream he's held for a long time. It's also a journey into maturity and greater discipline. He realizes all of these, though that isn't brought out very clearly in the end.
Spiritual themes are lightly touched on in several places: the nature of one's calling in life, staying in the moment, perseverence, and believing in oneself. But this movie is definitely not trying to make any big statements. It's a fun romp with lot's of action and good humor. The animation is beautiful always and spectacular at times.
Some of the cartoon violence is over the top and I heard a few preschool children express some anxiety. My two kids (12 and 14-years old) had no such anxiety and seemed to enjoy the movie thoroughly . . . as did I.
Four out of six candles for Kung Fu Panda.
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