Review By Jon Donnis
Jackie Chan's Panda Plan offers a delightful return to the action-comedy genre, showcasing his enduring charisma and physical prowess. In this film, Jackie portrays himself, attending the adoption ceremony of a rare baby panda. The event takes a dramatic turn when an international crime syndicate attempts to kidnap the cub, prompting Jackie to employ his renowned stunt skills to thwart the villains and safeguard the panda.
Despite advancing years, Jackie Chan's performance remains vibrant. His comedic timing is impeccable, and he executes action sequences with a finesse that belies his age. The film cleverly incorporates meta-humour, with Jackie playfully acknowledging his age and the physical challenges that come with it, even his big nose and "O walk" are acknowledged, adding a layer of self-awareness that fans will appreciate.
The narrative is engaging and maintains a light-hearted tone throughout. The plot is straightforward, allowing ample room for the action and comedy to shine. The dynamic between Jackie and his co-stars, including the bumbling yet endearing zoologist (Ce Shi) who becomes his reluctant sidekick, as well as Xiang Wei as David, Jackie's associate, adds depth to the story and provides numerous comedic moments.
However, the film is not without its flaws. The CGI used to animate the baby panda is inconsistent, with certain scenes where the digital effects are noticeably subpar. This can momentarily disrupt the viewer's immersion, though the overall charm of the film helps to mitigate this issue. Plus at times they convenient will place the bear a box or cage so they can do a scene without having to animate it.
A notable omission is the absence of the traditional blooper reel during the end credits, a hallmark of Jackie Chan's films that fans have come to anticipate. These outtakes offer a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes efforts and camaraderie during production, and their absence is felt. It is hoped that they will be included in the home entertainment release.
Panda Plan is a testament to Jackie Chan's enduring appeal and his ability to adapt his signature style to contemporary cinema. The film delivers a blend of action and comedy that is both nostalgic and refreshing. While it has its imperfections, the overall experience is enjoyable and heartwarming. As a long-time admirer of Jackie Chan's work, I would rate this film an 8.5 out of 10. It is a must-watch for fans and a delightful introduction for newcomers to his unique brand of entertainment.
In Selected Cinemas now.
