Writer: Lasekan Olabisi Gbemisola

Writer Ratings:
Overall:
Cast:
Plot:
Effects:
Cinematography:

Watch this if you liked: “Shrek”, “Madagascar”, "Kung Fu Panda"

One has to admit that "Kung Fu Panda: The Kaboom of Doom" is one of the best-animated films they'll ever see. From the famous CGI studios that brought to you "Shrek," and "Madagascar", Dreamworks Animation gave an extra kick this time around with the return of Jack Black as Po the Kung Fu fighting panda. Directed by Jennifer Yuh who worked on the first "Kung Fu Panda" as a story artist, the addition of the new dynamic fight sequences is a true marvel.

Po, as the new Dragon Warrior showcases the most awesome martial arts the world has ever known in protecting the Valley of Peace alongside with his friends and fellow Kung Fu masters, the Furious Five. In this film, the villain is a heinous peacock named Lord Shen (Gary Oldman) an elegant, cold-blooded fighter who unfolds his tail like a giant paper fan and flings his feathers like daggers at will. The other new cast members include Master Croc (Jean-Claude Van Damme), Oxen (Dennis Haysbert) and Rhino (Victor Garber).

Shen who overreacts to a prophecy foretelling that a panda will be his downfall, goes on a ruthless destruction movement towards the Valley of Peace. To overthrow the feathery tyrant, Po and his best buds, the Furious Five, summon new allies, including the former bandit Master Croc and a fortune-telling goat called Soothsayer (Michelle Yeoh). Tigress (Angelina Jolie), Mantis (Seth Rogen), Viper (Lucy Liu), Monkey (Jackie Chan) and Crane (David Cross) all reprise their roles as part of the Furious Five.

Of the supporting cast, Tigress (Jolie) gets the most additional screen time, including a few scenes with Po that suggest the screenwriters toyed with the idea of a romantic subplot between the two. Still, I won't say any more in fear of spoiling the story, but be prepared for a powerful emotional experience. Also, Po will have to unravel his own enigmatic past; Yes, we'll finally learn how a panda came to have a goose for a father.

Once again, the DreamWorks animation demonstrates that humour is the primary weapon in everything they do. "Kung Fu Panda: The Kaboom of Doom" offers a considerable high-end polish and the sequel certainly makes good on its promise so don't be surprised if it returns for another sequel!

Cinema Online, 25 May 2011