Kung Fu Panda 4

After 8 years, we finally got "Kung Fu Panda 4"; one of the most anticipated follow-ups to one of the best animated franchises in cinema! Well, was it worth the wait? "Kung Fu Panda 4" follows Po who must train a new warrior when he's chosen to become the spiritual leader of the Valley of Peace. However, when a powerful shape-shifting sorceress sets her eyes on his Staff of Wisdom, he suddenly realizes he's going to need some help. 

It pains me to write this but unfortunately, the story lost some of its charm. The predecessors offered a mature yet fun story full of magical and joyful moments which was a bit missing here! Don't get me wrong, there were still some heartful and magical moments sprinkled here and there, but I wish it had more of them. What did not work in the story firstly the lack of the furious five which was an illogical and bad decision from the director. It made the movie feel bland at times. Secondly, I wish the villain was much more menacing. I wanted him to have a great backstory and better intentions to make her feel more menacing. Despite those issues, I still enjoyed the story told here. 

On the bright side of things, the animation is still gorgeous as ever! Every frame was littered with details and full of bright colors! Furthermore, I would like to praise the voicework here! Jack Black stole the show yet again with his charismatic performance. I mean what's not to love about this movie? Awkwafina was fine and tolerable this time around. Cranston, Hong, Hoffman, and McShane did a great job too. Oh and as always the score by Hans Zimmer is still magical and brought back so many memories! Despite the franchise starting to lose its charm, Kung Fu Panda 4 is still nonetheless a solid fourth entry!