I honestly believe that Tenacious D could cover any song and do a decent job. Their cover of Baby One More Time is a corker! In fact I’d say it’s the best thing about Kung Fu Panda 4.
That might seem like a dig, calling out the end credits song as a big plus. It’s not! It’s just that whilst the latest adventure for Po is good fun and an enjoyable watch that nicely continues many of the themes of the three proceeding film, I don’t think it hits the same level.
The returning cast all carry on as usual. No problems there. It’s a shame the Furious Five don’t return properly though, explained as being away on missions. Had me wondering if it’s a story choice or a budget choice (Wikipedia suggests the latter). I understand the story’s focus on Po and new character Zhen, but I would have liked to see them again.
There are lots of sight gags and one liners, Black giving his usual energy. Awkwafina pairs decently with him, showing she can be more than the loud sidekick. The biggest issue is the villain. Viola Davis’s The Chameleon looks cool and makes a nice change, but doesn’t stick with me in the way Tai Lung, Lord Shen or General Kai do. Each of those villains histories tied into Po somehow. The Chameleon’s ties into Zhen’s, so whilst Po still learns a lesson, it doesn’t hit in the same way. Also, she’s also awfully loud and showy for a character that would work much better sewing suspicion, a thread teased but never elaborated on.
It’s easy to focus on the parts I don’t agree with, but Kung Fu Panda 4 is still entertaining and worth a watch if you’ve enjoyed the previous three. Some bulls in a China shop still tickles me just thinking of it. But I think Po may have learnt all he can now.
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