Kids’ animation. 2008. 88 min. Voices: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman and Jackie Chan. Directors: John Stevenson, Mark Osborne. PG.
Rating: 5/5
Reviewer: Jared Orlin
Kung fu-obsessed, overweight panda Po dreams of fighting alongside his heroes, the Furious Five, but ends up butting heads with the revered warriors (Tigress, Monkey, Mantis, Viper and Crane) when he’s accidentally chosen as the Dragon Warrior instead of one of them being given the honour. And when Tai Lung, enemy of the people of China, escapes from his prison, Po and his new trainer, Master Shifu, must figure out whether it’s Po’s destiny to save his nation or work in his dad’s noodle shop.
The producers roped in an all-star cast to voice the Furious Five (Angelina Jolie, Lucy Liu, Jackie Chan, Seth Rogen and David Cross) but they have so few lines it seems a waste. Jack Black brings a huge sense of fun to the bungling Po but Dustin Hoffman’s frustrated Shifu steals the show.
There’s plenty of humour here for adults and kids to enjoy as well as groundbreaking animation (check out the realistic-looking fur!) and explosive action sequences. No wonder a sequel is already in the works. Special features: featurettes, deleted scenes.
DRILLBIT TAYLOR
Comedy. 2008. 102 min. With Owen Wilson, Troy Gentile and Nate Hartley. Director: Steven Brill. 10LV.
Rating: 3/5
Reviewer: Kim Van Reizig
It’s the first day of high school for best friends Ryan (Gentile) and Wade (Hartley). When they accidently turn up wearing identical shirts they become an easy target for the school bullies. After days of torture they decide to employ a bodyguard - and find one in the shape of “army veteran” Drillbit Taylor (Wilson). Drillbit fools Ryan and Wade into believing he has tons of expertise in kicking butt but he’s actually a homeless dreamer.
Don’t expect sophisticated wit from Wilson and his co-stars but there’s no way you’ll be able to hold back on a few silly giggles. A feel-good one for family viewing. Special features: lots including commentary and featurettes.
