The Dragon Warrior has returned. DreamWorks has released the trailer for “Kung Fu Panda 4,” set for release on March 8.
The franchise follows a panda named Po (Jack Black), who, in the first film, is fated to become the prophesied Dragon Warrior, the only kung fu master capable of defeating the evil Tai Lung. He is trained by Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman) alongside fellow warriors comprising the Furious Five: Master Crane (David Cross), Master Mantis (Seth Rogen), Master Monkey (Jackie Chan), Master Tigress (Angelina Jolie) and Master Viper (Lucy Liu).
In the sequels, which were released in 2011 and 2016, Po and friends continue to defend China against its greatest foes while also uncovering Po’s biological roots. Black teased the plot of the new movie at CinemaCon earlier this year, explaining that Po is ready to retire as Dragon Warrior in favor of becoming a spiritual leader. He must subsequently train his successor, a fox named Zhen. However, a new threat is posed by a villain named Chameleon, who can bring back past enemies.
Awkwafina joined “Kung Fu Panda 4” as the voice of Zhen, alongside franchise newcomers Ke Huy Quan and Viola Davis. In addition to Black, other returning cast members include Cross, Rogen, Chan, Jolie and Liu.
The “Kung Fu Panda” franchise has been successful at the box office over the years, bringing in $1.8 billion altogether. The movies have also inspired three television series: “Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness,” “The Paws of Destiny” and “The Dragon Knight.”
Mike Mitchell (“Shrek Forever After,” “Trolls”) will direct the fourth film; Stephanie Ma Stine will co-direct. Rebecca Huntley produces.
Watch the trailer below.