You’re about to step into the heartwarming, thrilling world of noodles and pandas. The Kung Fu Panda series is filled with adventure, humor and life lessons. If you are new to the series, or simply want to revisit them, you may be wondering what’s a good order in which to watch each of these movies.
You don’t have to worry. I got you! Let’s order the Kung Fu Panda films (Master Shifu approves). You’re about to experience a thrilling ride.
1. Kung Fu Panda (2008)
The origin of Kung Fu Panda is amazing! Jack Black voices a cute, somewhat clumsy, panda called Po. Po is a worker in the noodle store of his father, but he dreams to be a master kung-fu. Who wouldn’t?
He has no idea what the future holds for him. Po must become the Dragon Warrior when Master Oogway proclaims him to be the Dragon Warrior. He will train alongside the Furious Five: Tigress, Monkey. Crane. Viper. and Mantis. You will feel all the emotions as you watch Po stumble through his training and still manage to unleash his inner strength! The fight with the terrifying Tai Lung was also epic. The epic.
The magic starts here. It sets the stage for the story, characters and Po’s charm.
2. Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011)
Adventure continues! This sequel is the emotional culmination of Po’s journey as the Dragon Warrior.
In Kung Fu Panda 2, the stakes have been raised. Po is faced with Lord Shen, a new evil villain who’s armed with deadly weapons. Yes, it’s a peacock. It’s also incredibly frightening. Shen makes Po confront his past and the mystery surrounding where he comes from.
The movie is a perfect blend of action and emotion. This installment is unforgettable, with its jaw-dropping battle scenes and emotional landmark for Po when he discovers “inner calm”.
3. Kung Fu Panda 3 (2016)
Po faces his most challenging challenge to date! Kung Fu Panda III answers the burning question that you’ve been asking since the very first film: Are there any other pandas? Spoiler Alert: There are many pandas!
Po discovers the hidden village of pandas and is reunited his father Li Shan. There’s more to life than sunshine, dumplings and a whole lot of them. Enter Kai, the supernatural warrior who collects the chi from kung-fu masters.
Expect bigger-than-life fights, hilarious panda humor, and spiritual wisdom. In the third film, Po takes on a leadership role and focuses on teamwork. What about those pandas, too? It’s cuteness overload!
The perfect end to Po’s adventures in kung-fu…or is it?
Bonus Watchlist
You thought the Kung Fu Panda series ended after three films? You’re wrong! Po has more for diehard fans.
- Kung Fu Panda Holiday (2009) A holiday special that shows Po as he juggles his role of Dragon Warrior with hosting a feast.
- Kung Fu Panda 4 (2024) (coming soon! ): Yes, it’s happening! For now, there are few details. But we do know that Po’s adventure will continue in exciting new ways. Mark your calendar!
- Kung Fu Panda TV Series:
- Legends of Awesomeness: (2011-2016), fun episodes expanding Po’s adventures.
- The Dragon Knight (2020): Netflix’s latest series features Po working with a Knight on an exciting quest.
If you want more action between watching the trilogy, these spin-offs will satisfy your craving for kungfu.
Why watch them in order?
These Kung Fu Panda films are not just standalone movies. They’re an interconnected story of friendship, growth and inner strength. You can see Po grow from a timid dreamer into the compassionate and confident warrior that he is. The overarching themes and references to other films are more powerful when seen in order.
What Makes Kung Fu Panda Special?
The Kung Fu Panda series is much more than beautifully animated martial art films. (Although, the visuals of these movies are breathtaking!). The film is filled with themes of self-discovery and resilience. It also teaches you how to find strength in yourself, even when you think that you lack it.
These movies are also hilarious. Jack Black’s portrayal of Po is filled with humor and emotion, while the rest of the voice actors, including Angelina Jolie and Dustin Hoffman elevate the story. This series, with its breathtaking animation and unforgettable Hans Zimmer score is timeless.
Last Thoughts
The Kung Fu Panda is a series that never fails to entertain, whether you are watching it for its hilarious humor, stunning animation or rich storyline. Po’s tale reminds us of the greatness that lies in all of us. We just need to have a bit more faith and some kung-fu flair.
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