Cast
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Jack Black
as Po (voice)
Angelina Jolie
as Tigress (voice)
Seth Rogen
as Mantis (voice)
Dustin Hoffman
as Shifu (voice)
Randall Duk Kim
as Oogway (voice)
Dennis Haysbert
as Ox (voice)
Paul Scheer
as Rhino (voice)
Tony Leondis
as Croc (voice)
Sumalee Montano
as Su Wu / Wing Wu / Wan Wu (voice)
David Cowgill
as Master Flying Rhino (voice)
Paul Vogt
as Pig Announcer (voice)
Todd Berger
as Pig Server / Rabbit (voice)
Donald Fullilove
as Gorilla Guard #1 (voice)
Joseph Izzo
as Little Birdie (voice)
Edie Mirman
as Mom Bunny (voice)
Crew
Director
- Tony Leondis
Writer
- Todd Berger
- Paul McEvoy
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Animation/Action/Comedy film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Kung Fu Panda: Secrets of the Masters distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Tony Leondis 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 2011, 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 Masters took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 24 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 80 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 1982 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2011, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Kung Fu Panda: Secrets of the Masters shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Fantasia, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Kung Fu Panda: Secrets of the Masters subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Love in the Time of Advertising and Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas explore similar territory, Kung Fu Panda: Secrets of the Masters stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 12, 2011
- Runtime: 24m
