Parents' Guide to The Kung Fu Kid

Movie 2026 NR 133 minutes
The Kung Fu Kid movie poster: A Juan stands with his elbow raised to fight kung fu on a red background

Common Sense Media Review

Christie Cronan By Christie Cronan , based on child development research. How do we rate?

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age 10+

Violence, language in animated martial arts underdog story.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 10+?

Any Positive Content?

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  • The Kung Fu Kid movie: A Juan kicks his left leg in an abandoned lot with high grass
  • The Kung Fu Kid movie: A Juan in boxing rings with gloves

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What's the Story?

THE KUNG FU KID (aka I Am What I Am 2) continues to follow the journey of A Juan (Xi Lin), a rural boy who moves to Shanghai desperate to find work as a lion dancer. Stumbling upon a failing martial arts club, he ends up entering the Shanghai Fight Night Tournament in the hopes of rising above his social status and saving his ailing father.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

Despite the generic title, The Kung Fu Kid surprises with a riveting cultural breath of fresh air in an underdog story with heart. The film explores defining success on your own terms without forgetting who you are or where you come from. A Juan's desire for the Shanghai dream is harshly set against the reality of the working class barely scraping by. The film doesn't shy away from the difficulties, hard work, or resilience needed to succeed either, which is refreshing.

The film is a little long at 133 minutes; the fight scenes could've been extensively edited while still anchoring the emotional depth of the characters. But the combination of Chinese culture, heartwarming messages, sharp visuals, and comedic moments make this standalone sequel worthwhile.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the film's martial arts underdog theme. Why do audiences love a good underdog story? What makes A Juan an underdog in this film? What obstacles did he have to overcome? What kept him motivated to keep going?

  • What values in this film seemed especially tied to Chinese culture? Which values felt universal? Did any customs, traditions, or cultural norms feel unfamiliar to you? What did you learn? How might this story be different if set in the United States versus Shanghai?

  • How does this film show tension between honoring traditions and adapting to modern life? How do the characters show respect for cultural heritage while pursuing new opportunities? Can traditions stay meaningful if they change over time?

Movie Details

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The Kung Fu Kid movie poster: A Juan stands with his elbow raised to fight kung fu on a red background

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