DVD Corner

Kung Fu Panda 4 4K UHD Review

“Kung Fu Panda 4” proves the franchise can still kick butt.

16 years after the first installment, the Mike Mitchell and Stephanie Ma Stine directed “Kung Fu Panda 4” has been released. In this fourth entry, Po takes on a new title of spiritual leader which means he must find a new Dragon Warrior to replace him. In his quest to find a successor, he encounters a fox named Zhen who leads him to the revelation that a new shape shifting villain (The Chameleon) has emerged. In reality, a trap is being set for Po as his Staff of Wisdom offers up the power to open the Spirit Realm. The Chameleon has his own nefarious plan with the Spirit Realm. While all of this is going on, Po’s two fathers (Mr. Ping and Li Shan) embark on a quest to back up Po in the event that he runs into trouble.

When it comes to the Dreamworks animated franchises, “Kung Fu Panda” has remained the most consistent and that still stands with this fourth part. It’s the type of franchise that really has it all. There’s exciting action, lovable characters, character growth, strong themes, humorous comedy, and gorgeous CGI animation to boot. What more could you want?

With “Kung Fu Panda 4,” the story really explores the theme of change as Po is about to embark on a new quest in life and must leave behind his status as Dragon Warrior. For anyone that has grown up with this franchise, this one might tug at the heart strings as the heroic character is no longer going to be the Dragon Warrior. The reveal of who the next Dragon Warrior is may be obvious from the start, but it definitely sets up enticing future sequels and storytelling avenues.

For longtime fans of the series, expect to see some surprise cameos in this one too. To say anything more would be spoiling the fun.

As per usual, Jack Black is positively masterful as Po. When you think of an actor making an animated character their own, Jack Black has certainly done that with Po. Awkwafina may be voicing seemingly everything these days, but the talented actress creates a memorable new character with Zhen. Viola Davis does a fine job voicing the duplicitous new villain The Chameleon. Dustin Hoffman (Master Shifu), Bryan Cranston (Li Shan), and James Hong (Mr. Ping) are fantastic as always in their respective roles. They’re the backbone of the series. 

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.39:1 2160p. How does it look? The colorful CGI animation looks positively stunning in 4K.

Audio Track: Dolby Atmos. How does it sound? The Atmos track is very active and lively. Just how it should be .

Extras:
* Blu-ray copy
* Digital copy
* 2 deleted scenes
* “Dueling Dumplings”- New animated short with an intro by Jack Black and Awkwafina.
* “Kung Fu Talking” is a behind-the-scenes look at the voice cast in action.
* “Meet The Cast” revolves around the voice cast.
* “Kung Fu Panda 4 All!”-  A behind-the-scenes overview of the making of this fourth installment.
* “Mastering The Dumpling”- Helen Wu and Philip Wang teach Jack Black how to make a dumpling.
* “How To Draw” segment.
* “Shadow Puppet Theater”- A how to make a small shadow puppet theater.
* Commentary by directors Mike Mitchell and Stephanie Ma Stine, production designer Paul Duncan, head of character animation Sean Sexton and head of story Calvin Tsang.
 

May 30, 2024 - Posted by nicklyons1 | 4K UHD Review | animation, Awkwafina, Dreamworks, Jack Black, Kung Fu Panda, Kung Fu Panda 4, Kung Fu Panda 4 4K UHD Review, Po