Five years after our unlikely but good-hearted Dragon Warrior’s last big-screen adventure, Kung Fu Panda 3 has hit theaters. In the third installment of the animated series, the lovable Po amuses audiences once again with his characteristic goofball enthusiasm. This time, our favorite chop-sockying panda takes a journey back to his roots after reuniting with his biological father, Li. He returns to the secret panda village of his birth, where he meets other pandas for the first time.

However, all of China is threatened after the resurgence of the menacing Kai, the former brother-in-arms of Kung Fu Panda‘s Grand Master Oogway. This formidable foe seeks to steal the chis, or spiritual energies, of other kung fu masters in order to become powerful. It is then up to Po to learn the art of chi, a technique mastered by his panda ancestors, in order to stop Kai’s ruthless plan.

Kung Fu Panda 3 finely balances humor, action, and depth. In a series that flourishes due to its charm, the third time doesn’t disappoint. It captures the appeal of an unconventional hero that the first two films established and adds a new dimension with his journey of self-discovery. The narrative also conveys wisdom in the franchise’s signature manner: the sage Shifu and Oogway add a whimsical touch to their important lessons regarding the road to enlightenment. The film’s impressive visuals also deserve recognition—the vibrant panda village is breathtakingly beautiful, and Oogway’s golden home in the Spirit Realm looks like a sneak peek of paradise. Scenes are infused with painterly animations reminiscent of classic Chinese artwork.

Just like its predecessors, Kung Fu Panda 3 delivers laughs, a cast of endearing characters, and a heartwarming storyline, making it an enjoyable experience for the whole family.