‘Kung Fu Panda 2’ packs a punch

Unlike failed sequels of other movies that were hastily made with little thought, Dreamworks “Kung Fu Panda 2” definitely matches, if not surpasses, the action-packed fun of the first movie released in 2008.

The second installment expands on an aspect untouched in the first movie: the fact that Po’s father is a goose. While the silly, bumbling little goose who seems more concerned about his noodle shop than anything else was a source of humor in the first movie, the relationship between Po and his father becomes a major concern to Po at probably the worst time ever.

Though Po must face the mystery of his adoption while fighting Lord Shen, an evil peacock intent on ruling the world, the movie still maintains a sentimentality and irresistible humor. While appealing to younger kids, the film retains a witty sense of humor that still pertains to that of adults, or in our case, teenagers.

Po’s “Dragon Warrior” Kung Fu is unmatched and provides thrilling action that keeps viewers on the edge of their seat. The fights, chases and explosions throughout the movie are only enhanced by the astounding visual effects, such as the usage of 3D technology and beautiful, vibrant colors.

Indeed, “Kung Fu Panda 2” is an amazing movie; however, the forthcoming “Panda” sequels may be a source of worry. “Shrek,” a series also produced by Dreamworks, is no doubt similar to the “Kung Fu Panda” movies in many ways: They are both hilarious movies with animated animals in which the main character ends up in a position he had never expected to find himself in.

The “Shrek” movies began with positive reception, with “Shrek” 1 and 2 both receiving 89 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, a website that compiles movie reviews and gives the movie a percentage score based on how many fresh “tomatoes” it receives verses rotten tomatoes. Nevertheless, the third and fourth movie seemed to run out of steam according to their mediocre ratings of 41 percent and 57 percent, respectively.

According to a statement by Dreamworks chief executive Jeffrey Katzenberg in Empire Magazine, there will be a total of six movies in the “Kung Fu Panda” franchise. The first two movies show careful planning, thought and effort, but we can only hope that this will hold true for future movies and the quality will not decrease the way that “Shrek” did.

While the future of Kung Fu Panda may seem bleak, there is little contention that the second movie is superb and a must-see for those who have yet to witness Po’s “Dragon Warrior” Kung Fu.