Dreamworks continues to amaze when it comes to computer animated films. From the Shrek trilogy to the upcoming Monsters Versus Aliens, they are definite competition for the team over at Disney/Pixar.
Kung-Fu Panda takes the universe of the CG films to a whole new level. The dazzling animation, amazing voice cast, and exciting action makes Kung-Fu Panda a fun and entertaining movie for all ages.
Even with all the martial arts action, there is a simple message: be true to yourself and you will find your way. And the main character Po does just that.
After inadvertently being chosen as the Legendary Dragon Warrior, Po (Jack Black) must prove himself worthy to his new master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman), and his band of warriors The Furious Five (voiced by Angelina Jolie, Seth Rogen, Lucy Liu, David Cross, and Jackie Chan).
Meanwhile, the dude who believes he is destined to be the Dragon Warrior, Tai Lung (Ian McShane), shows up with less than admirable intentions. What happens next? Watch and find out!
Kung-Fu Panda is loaded with special features. Below is a brief overview of each:
Filmmakers’ Commentary
Walk through the movie scene-by-scene with directors John Stevenson and Mark Osborne.
Meet the Cast
Jack Black and company talk about their characters and what they brought to their performances that enhanced the overall tone and feel of the film.
Pushing the Boundaries
Learn what new technology had to be created to make Kung-Fu Panda look so damn good.
Sound Design
Ethan Van Der Ryn, sound designer on Transformers, and The Lord of the Rings films, discusses designing the sound effects for this particular film.
“Kung Fu Fighting” Music Video by Cee-Lo
Was Kanye West busy?
Mr. Ping’s Noodle House
Alton Brown from Iron Chef America on Food Network shows us how Chinese noodles are made.
How to Use Chopsticks
A step-by-step guide to using the ancient utensil. I’m still trying to figure out how to use a fork!
Conservation International: Help Save Wild Pandas
A public service announcement hosted by Jack Black about saving wild Pandas.
Dragon Warrior Training Academy
Sounds fun. But with hard to read text and short clips from the film, it’s not what it claims to be.
Printables & Weblinks
Load DVD into PC. Get wallpapers, screensavers, and other Kung-Fu Panda stuff.
Dreamworks Animation Video Jukebox
Watch clips from Shrek, Madagascar, and Bee Movie.
Kung-Fu Panda made me want to run to Panda Express for some Orange Chicken! It was quite a fun and exhilarating film. I give it an A!
Kung Fu Panda
Dreamworks Pictures
Starring the Voice Talents of Jack Black, Dustin Hoffman, Angelina Jolie, Jackie Chan, and Seth Rogen
Rated PG for Sequences of Martial Arts Action
Running Time = 88 minutes
But wait! There’s more! Some people got an extra DVD when they bought Kung-Fu Panda. Secrets of the Furious Five presents a 24 minutes short film with Po (Jack Black) teaching group of young students the ways of Kung-Fu. How does he do it? By telling them stories about the famed Furious Five.
Along with this supplemental film, are even more special features!
Learn to Draw
Learn how to draw your favorite character from the film with the artists who drew them for the film.
Dumpling Shuffle
Follow the dumpling as it’s hidden under one of three identical bowls then shuffled around. Bet money for an added thrill.
Pandamonium Activity Kit
Insert DVD into PC. Play demos of Kung-Fu Panda and Madagascar 2 video games.
Learn the Panda Dance
With the help of Hi-Hat…High Hatt…some chick, you too can learn how to dance like Po. I’ll stick with the Macarena.
Do You Kung Fu?
Learn basic martial arts moves. Best part of this featurette: The disclaimer!
“Please exercise caution when trying these poses. Do not attempt to use these poses on other people or objects without professional training.”
Inside the Chinese Zodiac
Learn about the Chinese calendar system, and what animal represents your birth year. I was born in 1979 (kidless old man!) so I was born in the year of the Sheep. Baaa!
Animals of Kung-Fu Panda
Find out how Kung-Fu was influenced by the movements of various animals found in China. Five of these were the inspiration for the Furious Five.
What Fighting Style Are You?
Take a quiz and find out which Kung-Fu warrior you resemble. My style is Mantis.
Kung Fu Panda: Secrets of the Furious Five
Dreamworks Pictures
Starring the Voice Talents of Jack Black, Dustin Hoffman, Angelina Jolie, Jackie Chan, and Seth Rogen
Not Rated
Running Time = 24 minutes
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