Good family fun has strong messages

Success is achieved through self-discovery in Alessandro Carloni and Jennifer Yuh’s “Kung Fu Panda 3,” a humorous family action film from DreamWorks Animation. Jack Black returns as the voice of Po, a panda out of his element as an ancient being, bent on destroying China, returns to the mortal world.

For Po, life as the Dragon Warrior means spending his days defending the valley with the help of the Furious Five (Angelina Jolie, Jackie Chan, Seth Rogen, Lucy Liu, and David Cross). But when Po’s biological father, Li (Bryan Cranston), finds him, Po is sent on a new quest: Learn to master the power of chi before supernatural being Kai (J.K. Simmons) defeats all of China’s kung fu masters.

The third installment in DreamWorks Animation’s popular franchise uses both its characters and humor to draw audiences into the story. Once again, Jack Black excels at bringing both life and character to a lazy, noodle-loving, martial arts-practicing panda — a concept that honestly sounds ridiculous on paper — with hilarious results. Black’s energy is complimented heavily by the film’s supporting cast, a collection of excellent actors from Dustin Hoffman and Bryan Cranston, to Angelina Jolie and J.K. Simmons.

Many of these roles, no matter how trivial the characters’ screen time may be, are portrayed by well-known actors who are able to disappear into their parts.

It doesn’t feel like Black or Cranston simply voicing a panda; instead the audience gets to watch unique characters with various quirks and emotions. This allows the filmmakers to use their talented cast in the construction of a strong story that absorbs all who watch. And it is here — in story — that the film truly succeeds.
Films aimed at younger audiences have a tendency to simplify the narrative in an effort to maintain the attention of children. But with a silly concept holding their interest, the filmmakers have the freedom to expand their messages. Consequently, the first half of the film is rather slow, drawing in children with goofy, comedic moments that may leave older audiences rolling their eyes.

However as the plot advances, audiences will note that these annoying instances become less frequent and the story’s strong messages soon emerge from the comedy. The narrative does engage in some clichéd moments, but the presented messages offer valuable lessons for young viewers. The strength of these themes reveals the film’s true heart: That self-discovery is the key to inner peace — true strength — and is often dependent on the help of others for success.

Combining a humorous cast with strong messages and values, “Kung Fu Panda 3” from directors Alessandro Carloni and Jennifer Yuh is an enjoyable film for families. Children will no doubt be drawn to the colorful images and zany slapstick, while adults can still enjoy the jokes and overall themes of discovery and peace. Rounding out the trilogy, “Kung Fu Panda 3” combines beautiful animation with a meaningful story that can be appreciated by everyone.

My grade: 7.5 out of 10 stars.

(Timothy Hogg is a copy editor for The Derrick./The News-Herald. He has a minor in film and media studies from Slippery Rock University. Readers may contact him by email at timothyhogg.thederrick@gmail.com.)