Fun for all in Kung Fu Panda (Dreamworks)
By Vikram Bhoyrul
If I had a quarter for every time a panda has entertained me so much than I would have exactly 25 cents. Kung Fu Panda (opened June 6 throughout San Diego) is unique and incredibly entertaining, making for a great family movie. It has a well-known cast consisting of people like Angelina Jolie, Jackie Chan, and the panda himself, Jack Black. For the younger crowd there is an abundance of slapstick humor accompanied by Jack Black's lovable personality. For the rest of us, the movie actually contains some deeper messages.
In the tradition of most Disney classics, this Dreamworks animation promotes this whole "if you believe than you can achieve" idea and although clich ed, it is tastefully done in Kung Fu Panda. The message that I found to be the most interesting is that there are no accidents. The wise turtle kung fu master constantly repeats this message. He stresses that there is a reason for everything happening the way it does, and with time we are all destined to blossom. Similar to Batman or even Ironman , Kung Fu Panda emphasizes that no matter who you are, you don't need supernatural abilities to make a difference. You need determination and courage and the rest will fall into place.
True to Jack Black, the panda finds the strength to do the impossible through food. This gives the message that we are all fine the way we are and it is with our imperfections that we are in fact perfect. Kung Fu Panda was also nice in that it had some memorable lines and scenes that could be talked about afterwards such as "skidoosh" or "don't tell monkey!"
Overall Kung Fu Panda (rated PG for scenes of martial arts action) was clearly targeted towards the younger audience but with its underlying messages and Jack Black's humor, Kung Fu Panda is a good time for all ages.
Vikram Bhoyrul is a senior at The Bishop's School in La Jolla. For years film has been a passion of his. Besides Star Wars, his favorite movies are Children of Men, Cinderella Man. Life of Brian, and without question The Lion King. He would also like to become a journalist when he grows up. His goal is to become an influential network anchor. In his free time he likes running, singing, watching Fresh Prince of Bel Air, and cooking. At high school, he is the editor of his own school newspaper, and in college he wishes to major in journalism.
