Jack Black is back! The rock ‘n’ roll funny man will once again lend his lungs to Po, the titular hero, in Kung Fu Panda 4, the latest addition to DreamWorks Animation’s martial arts comedy franchise.
When is Kung Fu Panda 4 being released in New Zealand?
Kung Fu Panda 4 releases theatrically in New Zealand on April 4.
What is Kung Fu Panda 4 about?
As DreamWorks’ surprisingly lengthy synopsis tells us: “After three death-defying adventures defeating world-class villains with his unmatched courage and mad martial arts skills, Po, the Dragon Warrior, is called upon by destiny to… give it a rest already. More specifically, he’s tapped to become the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace.”
Complicating Po’s imminent ascension to the clergy is the emergence of a new adversary, the shapeshifting lizard Chameleon, who has designs on Po’s Staff of Wisdom, which will allow her to summon past villains from the spirit realm to wreak havoc – which explains why Tai Lung, the antagonist in the first film, is back for round four. Luckily, we also get a few new friends showing up, such as foxy thief Zhen, and pangolin Han.
The cast of Kung Fu Panda 4
Along with Black, returning to the franchise are Dustin Hoffman as Shifu; James Hong as Po’s adoptive father, Mr. Ping; Bryan Cranston as Po’s birth father, Li; and Ian McShane as the villainous Tai Lung. Newcomers include Ke Huy Quan as Han, Awkwafina as Zhen, and Viola Davis as Chameleon, plus Ronny Chieng and Lori Tan Chinn
Kung Fu Panda 4 trailer
Why we’re excited about Kung Fu Panda 4
Look, these flicks are just a boatload of fun, and show a clear affection for classic martial arts movies. All we’re saying is if you want to be watching Bruce Lee and Sammo Hung flicks with your kids a few years down the track, sow the seeds with this one now.
