I Watch Films: Kung Fu Panda 3

 

Kung Fu Panda 3

In the Spirit Realm Master Oogway (tortoise, see Kung Fu Panda) is attacked by General Kai (bull). Kai defeats him and steals his chi (represented by a jade-coloured tortoise amulet) which he adds to the chi he has stolen from other kung fu masters in the Spirit Realm. Kai uses this to return to the Mortal Realm (China) where he learns that in the hundreds of years since he was banished he has been forgotten.

In the valley of Peace Master Shifu (red panda) appoints Po (giant panda) teacher of the Furious Five; this is a disaster and has them injured. Going home Po to his father Mr Ping’s (goose) noodle shop he meets Li Shan (giant panda) who has been given a message by the universe his missing son is alive. After some confusion they realise Po is the missing son.

The valley is attacked by jade zombies, created from the chi of the kung fu masters Kai has defeated. Po and the Five defeat them, and they learn the backstory. Kai and Oogway had been companions; after Oogway was injured Kai took him to a secret panda village where the secrets of chi saved Oogway’s life. Oogway learned to share chi, but Kai took it and they fought, Oogway banishing him to the spirit realm.

Li Shan offers to teach Po about chi, insisting he com to the secret panda village. Po and Mr Ping (jealous) goes with them. In the village Li Shan insists that Po learn about being a panda before he teaches him about chi. This is mostly about rolling around, eating and napping.

Kai attacks the valley, destroys the Jade Palace and everything Oogway built, defeats the Furious Five and steals their chi, except for Tigress (tiger) who escapes. She goes to the secret panda village to warn Po. Li Shan admits that he doesn’t know the secrets of chi. Po trains, then rallies the village to fight panda style for a spectacular final battle.

If the first two films were about getting serious about things to save the day, this one seems to be about community and sacrifice. Though as a children’s animated comedy the sacrifice is redeemed in the end. Still, it’s the thought that counts.

Watch This: Charming kung fu comedy kids film with a little more to chew on
Don’t Watch This: Pandas roll around, eat too much