Reviews

Panda Bear in Africa |Close-Up Film Review

Dir: Richard Claus, Denmark/Netherlands/France/Germany/Estonia/ China, 2024, 84 mins, English/Dutch/Chinese with subtitles

Cast:  Mick Aerts, Maurits Delchot, Thom Hoffman

Review by Matthew Morlai Kamara

A family-friendly adventure, Panda Bear in Africa centers on a playful panda who journeys from his home in China to the heart of Africa in search of his kidnapped best friend, Dragon.

Along the way, the panda encounters a host of new faces, including clever hyenas, a grumpy hippo, and wise gorillas, as he navigates unknown terrain. With the help of his wits and newfound friends, he not only rescues Dragon but also helps protect a threatened jungle habitat.

This animated tale bursts with bright, lively visuals that bring its African setting to life. The panda’s endearing personality and the lively animal characters are sure to charm children, while the film’s heartfelt themes of loyalty and courage are woven into the narrative.

On the downside, the story is predictable and heavily reliant on familiar animated tropes. While younger viewers will likely adore the humor and action, older audiences may find it somewhat uninspired. Still, I couldn’t deny that my inner child enjoyed moments of the panda’s antics and the vibrant world he explored.

Overall, Panda Bear in Africa is an adorable film that offers wholesome fun for families, even if it lacks originality. Kids will love it, and adults will find it a pleasant, if not particularly groundbreaking, watch.