Kung Fu Panda 4, the newest addition to the DreamWorks Animation saga, has set a Rotten Tomatoes record for the series ahead of its general theater release. The animated sequel debuted with an initial score of 76% based on early reviews.
While this rating is considered fresh, it establishes a new low for the franchise, which previously boasted higher scores forKung Fu Panda(87%),Kung Fu Panda 2(81%), andKung Fu Panda 3(87%). With more reviews on the way,Kung Fu Panda 4could see an improvement in its position on the review aggregator website.
Kung Fu Panda 4 clearly aims to refresh the franchise. But it’s really more of the same, which is not such a bad thing.
Critics have offered varied opinions on the film. Frank Scheck ofThe Hollywood Reportercommented, “Kung Fu Panda 4 clearly aims to refresh the franchise. But it’s really more of the same, which is not such a bad thing.”
One aspect of the film that has drawn criticism is the absence of certain fan-favorite characters and a perceived lack of depth in the storyline. Howard W. of CBR expressed disappointment, stating, “We’re in a narrative rut with two characters at extreme ends of their enlightened paths, but neither is explored in ways that don’t result in fisticuffs.” WhileMovieWeb’s Julian Romansaid:
“Kung Fu Panda 4 is surprisingly funny and has great action scenes. But weak subplots and underwritten characters detract from the narrative.”
How Tai Lung Could Return (And What Makes Him Different) in Kung Fu Panda 4
Tai Lung returns to the Kung Fu Panda franchise after 16 years. Here’s how his reappearance will benefit Kung Fu Panda 4.
Theabsence of secondary charactersvoiced by Angelina Jolie, Seth Rogen, Lucy Liu, and David Cross, as well as the diminished presence of Randall Duk Kim’s character, Oogway, has been noted as a loss for the series.
Jack Black and Cast Return for Another Adventure in Kung Fu Panda 4
Despite these critiques,Kung Fu Panda 4sees the return of several key cast members. Jack Black is back as the voice of Po, joined by Dustin Hoffman (Master Shifu), James Hong (Mr. Ping), Bryan Cranston (Li Shan), and Ian McShane (Tai Lung). The film also welcomes newcomers to the franchise, including Awkwafina, Viola Davis, Ke Huy Quan, Lori Tan Chinn, and Ronny Chieng, adding fresh voices to the beloved series.
Directed by Mike Mitchell and written by Jonathan Aibel, Glenn Berger, and Darren Lemke,Kung Fu Panda 4is poised to be an exciting addition to the franchise. Both fans and newcomers will have the chance to determine if this new adventure meets the standards of its predecessors or disappoints.
Kung Fu Panda 4officially releases in theaters on July 30, 2025.
