Kung Fu Panda is a DreamWorks animated feature film directed by Mark Osborne and John Stevenson, written by Jonathan Aibel and Glenn Berger. Released in French theaters on July 9, 2008, this family-friendly adventure, lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes and suitable for viewers aged 6 and up, will be available on Netflix starting February 15, 2026. Narrated in the original version by Jack Black and dubbed in French by Manu Payet, the film quickly became one of the major animated hits of the 2000s.
Po, a panda with a deep passion for martial arts, works at his adoptive father's noodle shop while dreaming of becoming a fighter. Unexpectedly chosen to fulfill an ancient prophecy, he is summoned to the Jade Palace to learn kung-fu under the guidance of Master Shifu, alongside the formidable Furious Five: Tigress, Crane, Mantis, Viper, and Monkey.
As the snow leopard Taï Lung threatens the valley, Po must rise above his clumsiness and face the skepticism of those around him. His journey becomes a quest for self-discovery, where confidence and perseverance are more important than raw strength, set against a backdrop inspired by ancient China.
Produced by DreamWorks Animation, the studio behind hit franchises like Shrek and Madagascar, the film combines comedy and martial arts in a lively and energetic presentation. Director Mark Osborne emphasized the goal of delivering an uplifting story that blends humor with action. The soundtrack is crafted by renowned composers Hans Zimmer and John Powell, two influential figures in American cinema music.
The original voice cast also features Dustin Hoffman, Angelina Jolie, Lucy Liu, Jackie Chan, and Seth Rogen. In France, Manu Payet and Pierre Arditi lend their voices to an adaptation carefully crafted to preserve the comedic energy of the American version. Premiering out of competition at the Cannes Film Festival in 2008, the film was nominated for the Best Animated Feature Oscar in 2009 and went on to win several Annie Awards.
Blending an coming-of-age story with fast-paced action comedy, Kung Fu Panda appeals to families and fans of animated adventures. Its accessible humor, paired with precisely choreographed fight scenes, has established it as the cornerstone of a franchise spanning sequels and spin-off series.
Kung Fu Panda
Movie | 2008
Released in theaters: July 9, 2008
Available on Netflix from February 15, 2026
Action, Animation, Martial Arts, Family | Duration: 1h30
Directed by Mark Osborne, John Stevenson | Voice cast includes Jack Black, Manu Payet, Pierre Arditi
Original title: Kung Fu Panda
Country: United States
An underdog story with a comedic twist, Kung Fu Panda blends humor with martial arts in a beautifully crafted visual world. Now available on Netflix, it offers a fresh look at a modern animation classic—delivering both family entertainment and a playful salute to martial arts movies.
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