[Animated Film] Kong Fu Panda 1-3

Written on: 08/24/2023

In the first film, Po (the protagonist) transforms from an ordinary individual to a skilled warrior under the guidance of his master, overcoming the skepticism of others and defeating Tai Lung. This marks his graduation from his apprenticeship.

In the second film, Po uncovers the mystery of his origins through his struggle with Lord Shen, achieving inner peace and a state of calmness. At this point, Po's internal cultivation surpasses or at least matches his master's level.

In the third film, with the help of others, Po overcomes a formidable adversary in Kai, grasps the essence of Chi, and begins to teach others. In doing so, he approaches the skill level of Master Oogway.

"Kung Fu Panda 1" explores the theme of self-discovery and finding one's place; "Kung Fu Panda 2" delves into how one should face their past and deal with the resulting emotional wounds; and "Kung Fu Panda 3" examines the roles individuals play in society, building on the foundations laid by the previous two films. Collectively, the Kung Fu Panda trilogy provides an in-depth exploration of self-understanding.

In the Taoist text "Zhuangzi," it is said, "Do not observe the flowing water; observe the still water, for only stillness can bring all things to rest." This concept seems to be directly derived from Chinese martial arts, as the ultimate goal of these practices is tranquility. With inner peace, one can overcome external chaos and pressure. The essence of this philosophy lies in maintaining inner calm amidst external turbulence, enabling one to face challenges and transcend their limitations.

Without inner peace, one's thoughts become scattered; without solitude, one might make mistakes at crucial moments. Conversely, cultivating stillness leads to a serene gaze, elegant demeanor, and an expansive state of mind. In "Kung Fu Panda 2," the quote "In the peace" conveys the importance of preserving inner tranquility. When Po achieves this state, he can recall forgotten memories, vividly picturing even a single droplet falling from a tree.

Both stories are guided by the Taoist principle of balancing Yin and Yang. "Shifu" highlights that Kung Fu originates from the "Sacred Lake," with its highest realm being inner peace. This is exemplified by both Master Oogway and Shifu, who are depicted in a shot standing on a tree branch, symbolizing their attainment of "stillness."

In the first "Kung Fu Panda" film, the highest martial arts secret and the most exceptional recipe are both contained within a blank piece of paper. This concept aligns with the Buddhist philosophy of "emptiness." When our minds are clear and free from distractions, we can embrace everything. However, when we cling to certain ideas or possessions, we risk losing them. True wisdom arises from recognizing the limitations of our knowledge and acknowledging the impermanence of all things. This emptiness is also the ultimate goal of meditation, as it encourages practitioners to let go of attachments, biases, experiences, and expectations. By doing so, individuals can gain deeper insights into the nature of existence and avoid the hindrances that arise from a limited perspective.

In Buddhism, "emptiness" invites us to enter a transcendent state where we can view the world without judgment, comparison, or attachment. By cultivating a broader perspective, we can better understand the interconnectedness of all things and attain wisdom.

Buddhism teaches that "form is emptiness, and emptiness is form." Here, "form" can be understood as physical matter. While there appear to be differences between material objects and emptiness on the surface, they share the same fundamental nature. This concept is known as "form-emptiness." Phenomena are manifestations of form, yet their intrinsic nature is empty. From the perspective of emptiness, everything is in constant flux, subject to change and impermanence. By recognizing this truth, we understand that everything we pursue, including life itself, is an ephemeral illusion. This is the nature of emptiness.

The Buddhist idea of form-emptiness is based on the notion that emptiness is the fundamental attribute of form, encompassing and generating all phenomena. When we undertake a project, it begins as a mere thought, materializing through design and construction until it stands before us. Yet, from the moment it is built, it begins to deteriorate. After centuries or millennia, the structure will return to its original state of emptiness. This cyclical process demonstrates impermanence, change, and emptiness – the essence of form-emptiness.

"Unperturbed by favor or disgrace, observing flowers bloom and wither in the garden; free from attachment to coming and going, watching clouds gather and disperse in the sky."

who I am? This is a seemingly simple but profound question that Po in the movie "Kung Fu Panda 2" asked repeatedly in his heart. He is a big, fat panda, but his father is a skinny white goose, a difference that causes him deep confusion about his identity. Po, who has become the Dragon Warrior, has become more and more confused about his identity, so much so that at critical junctures of battles, he fell into a trance due to the appearance of symbols in his childhood memory and almost died. Perhaps everyone has thought about this question: where do we come from, who are we, and what is our true identity?

There is a common saying in Zen Buddhism: "What was the true face of our parents before they were alive?" This true face is our truth, our essence. Zen Buddhism pursues the realization of one's own truth through meditation and regards this as the fundamental goal of Buddhism. This idea is also reflected in Western culture. The proverbs in ancient Greek culture tell us: "Knowing yourself" is an important exploration of the human spiritual world. Only when we truly understand ourselves and our own essence can we find the direction of life.

In the film, Po's master is a wise red panda who teaches him to find inner peace. Only in this tranquil state can one harness the flowing energies of the universe. Po's master demonstrates a divine skill called "Tai Chi," using his palms to hold and spin a droplet of water without breaking its form. Later, Po uses this technique to repel Lord Shen's cannonball attack, defeating him.

Lord Shen is perplexed by Po's ability to maintain inner peace despite the pain inflicted upon him, expecting him to be consumed by rage. This illustrates the core philosophy of Chinese martial arts, emphasizing inner tranquility and wisdom.

So, how does Po achieve inner peace? After experiencing hallucinations and getting injured in battle, he is nursed back to health and guided by Soothsayer. She explains, "Your past does not define who you are. What matters is who you choose to be from now on." Ultimately, she asks Po, "Who are you?" to which he responds, "I am Po!" This self-realization allows him to overcome adversity and confidently declare his identity to his adoptive father. By recognizing his true self, Po attains "inner peace" and finds the strength to confront his past.

"Original face" manifests when one transcends dualistic thoughts and attachments. In the dialogue between Huineng and Huiming, "good" and "evil" symbolize any form of duality such as right and wrong, beautiful and ugly, or clean and dirty. Zen Buddhism seeks to overcome such mental fixations, which create illusions and obscure the true self. By ceasing attachments and realizing the emptiness of all phenomena, one can enter the realm of "suchness" and attain enlightenment.

Steve Jobs once said he would trade all his technology for an afternoon with Socrates, an ancient Greek philosopher considered one of the wisest men in history. Socrates emphasized the importance of reflection, stating that an unexamined life is not worth living, as it lacks depth and value. Socrates, along with the Buddha, Confucius, and Jesus, was named one of the "Four Sages" by German philosopher Karl Jaspers. These Eastern and Western sages profoundly influenced Jobs' wisdom.

According to renowned scholar Wu Jingxiong, "We neither turn to the East nor the West but inward, for in the depths of our souls lies a divine essence which is our true home." Regardless of cultural background, humans seek their spiritual home, delving into their inner selves for self-discovery.

Po's success stems from the Eastern virtue of patience—a combination of endurance and perseverance. Despite his initial impatience, he remains steadfast in his beliefs. While his enlightenment appears mystical, it primarily results from self-breakthrough.

In Zen Buddhism, there's a term called "forge and hammer." It suggests that enduring hardships within the "furnace and bellows" of heaven and earth cultivates one's character and nurtures sages. The film embodies Zen philosophy by blending lightheartedness, beauty, and poignant themes, striking a balance between humor and solemnity.

These life-changing experiences challenge our inner strength. If we were in Po's position, how would we respond? Such introspection is valuable, as it encourages us to grow and adapt amidst adversity.

Po's fondness for food is a defining trait and a coping mechanism. One evening, Master Shifu finds Po eating and points out that he turns to food when unhappy. Initially, this remark seems merely observational, but its significance becomes evident as the story progresses.

Even when not hungry, Po eats when anxious or worried, reflecting his self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy despite being called "the Dragon Warrior." Overcoming these insecurities requires substantial effort and perseverance.

Master Shifu uses food to incentivize Po during training. Eventually, after rigorous practice, Po becomes a skilled Kung Fu warrior, gaining confidence in his abilities.

When offered a dumpling as a reward, Po declines, stating, "I'm not hungry." This demonstrates his newfound emotional balance and acceptance of his role. No longer burdened by sadness or self-doubt, he can embrace his true self and engage in battle with a sense of joy and purpose.