Kung Fu Panda 3: Movie Review

For the past two films, the "Kung Fu Panda" series has done enough to make it one of most popular and recognizable animation franchises out there. Not only does it bank on its kinetic roots but the series easily exudes a good quality experience for film-goers. Now that "Kung Fu Panda 3" is here - is the third time still the charm for the series? Let's find out.

When Po's (Jack Black) long-lost panda father (Bryan Cranston) suddenly reappears, the reunited duo travels to a secret panda paradise to meet scores of his hilarious panda brethren and for Po to learn the art of harnessing the power of Chi. But when the supernatural villain Kai (J.K. Simmons) begins to sweep across China defeating all the kung fu masters, Po must do the impossible — learn to train a village full of his fun-loving, clumsy pandas - and defeat Kai and banish him to the immortal world once again for good.

You might think that by now, audiences should probably be sick of Po's typical bumbling antics. But surprisingly, Po is as lovable as before and his character still brings much needed life to a film that takes a step back in terms of its delivery. While we loved the slapstick humor, we found that the overall plot was a little bit of a letdown for our tastes. The reunion of Po and his long lost father wasn't really up to snuff to what we expected it to be. Don't worry though as "Kung Fu Panda 3" is still very enjoyable. It features the same kinetic and fun movements that defines the series. The fight scenes are great if not spectacular. The graphics have improved quite a bit especially when comparing it to the second film and its probably the best in the series. The new cast of characters, the Pandas, are to put it bluntly - simply adorable. Each one having their own quirks that add some major humor into the mix. We guess "Kung Fu Panda 3" is just a little bit too formulaic in some aspects.

Rating: 3 and a half reels

Why you should watch it:
- the graphics are at its best for the series
- the humor is as funny as ever

Why you shouldn't watch it:
- the story was a letdown