Kung Fu Panda 2008
I saw this on a long plane ride, so I am judging it based on a 7-inch screen, interrupted by peanuts and drink service. I had heard very good things about this movie: on Ebert and Roeper, Michael Philips gave it raves. And this is certainly above average for animated movies. The story centers around an overweight panda going to superhero school even though the other students think he has no business being there. Jack Black, as the panda, is easier to take as a voice and can’t constantly mug for the camera. There is a lot of slapstick and easy jokes about clumsiness and overeating, that make this seem a lot like Chris Farley’s ninja movie. The teacher is given a surprisingly solid backstory, reminiscent of some elements of Star Wars, with a student that goes wrong. And, because it is a cartoon, everything ties together with a nice message. For kids this is going to be a pretty good pick, but most adults will probably be entertained, but not enthralled by this movie. I will give it a B.
Written: 15 Aug 2008
Owned on: Digital