Common Sense Media Review
By S. Jhoanna Robledo
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Action-packed start of a franchise; scary scenes, fatphobia.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Kung Fu Panda
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 57 parent reviews
Parents say this animated movie is generally entertaining and enjoyable for families, featuring positive messages about self-belief and determination. However, concerns arise regarding the level of violence, with some parents feeling it may be too intense or inappropriate for younger viewers, especially given themes of fat-shaming and darker elements throughout the plot.
- violence concerns
- positive messages
- family entertainment
- age appropriateness
- humor mixed with action
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 107 kid reviews
Kids say this movie is a fantastic blend of humor, action, and heartwarming messages, making it suitable for all ages, especially with some guidance for the younger ones due to mild violence and intense scenes. Many appreciate its stunning animation, memorable characters, and the positive themes of self-acceptance and perseverance that resonate across different age groups.
- humor and action
- positive messages
- great animation
- family friendly
- suitable for older kids
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
KUNG FU PANDA asks the question "Can you achieve greatness if you're not destined for it?" Of all the possible kung fu masters-to-be, Po (voiced by Jack Black) -- a lumbering, lovable panda -- seems the least likely candidate. Besides, his family is in the noodle business, and that's where his father (Randall Duk Kim as, improbably, a goose) expects him to make his mark. But a snafu at the Jade Palace leaves Po as the top pick for the legendary Dragon Warrior. The position comes with a huge responsibility: The Dragon Warrior is charged with protecting the town from Tai Lung (Ian McShane), a brilliant martial artist who crossed over to the dark side long ago. He's been locked up for years, but now he's on his way to defeat Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman) and his elite Furious Five. Can unlikely hero Po stand his ground and save the day?
Is It Any Good?
This family movie is a pleasure, and Po is the ideal animated incarnation of the engaging, electric Black. He's wonderful in Kung Fu Panda, giving Po the perfect mix of irreverence and sincerity. When Po meets his idols, the Furious Five -- Tigress (Angelina Jolie), Crane (David Cross), Mantis (Seth Rogen), Viper (Lucy Liu), and Monkey (Jackie Chan) -- he's charmingly awestruck. To watch him metamorphose from kung fu fanboy to master is a delight. And the message -- there's no secret to greatness besides faith in yourself -- is admirable, if clumsily executed.
Kung Fu Panda's story may not be the most inventive, nor as inclusive as other Chinese-themed animations like Mulan or Over the Moon, but it's undeniably charming. And there are definitely moments of brilliance: A training battle between Shifu and Po involving chopsticks and a lone dumpling will go down as one of the best in cartoon history.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Po's decision to follow his dreams and pursue martial arts greatness in Kung Fu Panda. Was he right?
What makes Po different from the other heroes in the movie? What do they learn from him? How do they demonstrate teamwork?
What does Kung Fu Panda say about Po's relationship with food? Does it embrace his love for eating, or does it shame him for it? Do you agree or disagree with how the film handled Po's journey to loving himself?
How do the characters in Kung Fu Panda demonstrate perseverance, self-control, and integrity? Why are these important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : June 6, 2008
- On DVD or streaming : November 9, 2008
- Cast : Angelina Jolie , Dustin Hoffman , Jack Black
- Director : Mark Osborne
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Paramount Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Animals ( Wild Animals )
- Character Strengths : Integrity , Perseverance , Self-control , Teamwork
- Run time : 88 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : sequences of martial arts action.
- Last updated : February 19, 2026
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