Cast
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Jack Black
as Po (voice)
Dustin Hoffman
as Shifu (voice)
David Cross
as Crane (voice)
Randall Duk Kim
as Oogway (voice)
Elizabeth Ann Bennett
as Ant / Bunny (voice)
Jaycee Chan
as Young Monkey (voice)
Jim Cummings
as Instructor (voice)
Jessica DiCicco
as Young Viper (voice)
James Sie
as Great Master Viper (voice)
Carol Kane
as Sheep (voice)
Tara Strong
as Young Tigress (voice)
John DiMaggio
as Crocodile Bandit #1 / Gorilla Bandit (voice)
Max Koch
as Young Mantis (voice)
Stephanie Lemelin
as Mei Ling (voice)
Meredith Scott Lynn
as Master Viper's Mom (voice)
Crew
Director
- Raman Hui Shing-Ngai
Producer
- Karen Foster
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Animation/Family/Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Kung Fu Panda: Secrets of the Furious Five distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Raman Hui Shing-Ngai brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2008, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Kung Fu Panda: Secrets of the Furious Five took approximately 22 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 25 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 61 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 2079 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2008, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Kung Fu Panda: Secrets of the Furious Five shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Hur gick det sen?, which focuses more on action than character development, Kung Fu Panda: Secrets of the Furious Five subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Just One of Those Days and The Nightwatchman explore similar territory, Kung Fu Panda: Secrets of the Furious Five stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 8, 2008
- Runtime: 25m
