Mike Mitchell’s highly-anticipated ‘Kung Fu Panda 4’ is gearing up to hit the big screens next month. Fans of the action-comedy franchise are in for a treat as comedy icon Jack Black returns to breathe life into Po, the unlikeliest kung fu master in the world, after almost a decade. DreamWorks Animation promises a hilarious new chapter in this beloved series, with exciting new characters joining the ensemble.
Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis steps into the spotlight as The Chameleon, a wicked and powerful sorceress, while Golden Globe winner Awkwafina brings Zhen, a crafty and quick-witted thief, to life. In an exclusive chat with Pinkvilla, Davis shared her excitement about her character in ‘Kung Fu Panda 4,’ expressing how it gave her the freedom to be silly for a few hours.
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In ‘Kung Fu Panda 4,’ Davis lends her voice to The Chameleon, a force disrupting the tranquillity of the Valley of Peace. This marks Davis’ first role in an animated feature film, and she embraces the complexity and unpredictability of her character. The Chameleon is a powerful sorceress with the ability to shape-shift into any creature, big or small, adding an intriguing dynamic to the story.
During her chat with Pinkvilla, Davis praised the creative freedom she was given on set, allowing her to explore different facets of The Chameleon’s personality. She credited Mitchell and Stine for fostering an environment of playfulness and innovation, which enriched her performance in the film.
Davis also highlighted the enduring appeal of the Kung Fu Panda franchise, celebrating its themes of transformation and reluctant heroism.
Director Mike Mitchell shared insights into The Chameleon’s character, emphasizing her role as a formidable adversary for Po. He described The Chameleon as a deliberate addition to the franchise, bringing a fresh challenge for the beloved protagonist. Mitchell praised Davis’ performance, noting how her powerful voice elevated the character to new heights of villainy.