Nostalgia is at a high for many after the endearing movie series: Kung Fu Panda was announced a fourth sequel coming March 8th, 2024. The newest upcoming addition was a shock to many as the previous installment, (Kung Fu Panda 3), had come out in 2016, making it 8 years since people have last seen the series.
The teaser trailer for the movie was released during the 2024 Super Bowl. The teaser hints at a partnership/alliance with the main character Po and a new supporting character named Zhen. The entire teaser holds a bit of playfulness, keeping the humor that had originally differentiated the Kung Fu Panda movies apart from others, gathering its loyal fanbase of dedicated fans. Near the end of the teaser, viewers are confused by watching a snippet of a scene where Po is preparing to fight what seems to be an evil alternate version of himself. This had left many fans speculating about the movie’s conflict and possible new characters. Although many fans are excited at the idea of new characters, many seem to be disappointed with the somewhat disappearance of the once-beloved supporting characters like the Furious Five, a group made up of Tigress, monkey, crane, snake, and Mantis, who until now, had been major characters in the franchise. Fortunately, it has been mentioned that although they won’t have major roles in this fourth installment, due to being on their missions, they will make a brief appearance.
Soon after the teaser had been released, new information about the plot had surfaced, exciting fans. It follows Po attempting to find his path as a spiritual leader through finding the path of enlightenment. The antagonist is a shape-shifting chameleon standing in Po’s path, hoping to rid the world of the dragon warrior by shifting into Po’s darkest rivals. Po gets help from a fox named Zhen who in turn, is getting trained to be the next dragon warrior. The fourth film also explores new aspects of martial arts, and fans are thrilled.
Many say that 2024 is the year for animated movies, and Kung Fu Panda 4 is one of the reasons! Be sure to check it out in theatres during this March, it will certainly be the highlight of the month.
