From GKIDS comes the return of a classic animated character, the eponymous Go! Panda! Go! is now available on DVD and Blu-ray to enhance your media library. This new DVD collection includes two short films featuring the titular Panda. The first is the original film, Go! Panda Go!, released in 1972, and its 1973 sequel, Panda! Go, Panda!: The Rainy-Day Circus; both clock in at 34 minutes and 38 minutes respectively, making for a quick double feature with plenty of Panda to go around.
Go! Panda Go! depicts a cute-yet-outlandish story in which orphaned protagonist Mimiko discovers a baby panda named Pan-chan, befriends the bear, and eventually forms a “family” with Pan-chan and another, an older panda named PapaPanda. Its themes of friendship and self-discovery are sure to connect with younger audiences, and parents will approve of its positive messaging.
The sequel is equally as zany: one night the home of Mimiko, Pan-Chan, and PapaPanda is broken into by a circus ringmaster and his accompanying grunt, who immediately believe they’ve stumbled into a Goldilocks-esque scenario. The story devolves into a wild goose chase in which the protagonists must stop an animal-filled train from crashing into the mayor’s house. Kids are sure to latch onto this off-the-rails adventure and its adorable characters.
Japanese animation (or “anime”) fans may recognize this title for being an early outing for two of the medium’s most respected creators, with Isao Takahata (Pom Poko, Grave of the Fireflies) as director and Hayao Miyazaki (My Neighbor Totoro, Howl’s Moving Castle) writing the films as well as designing the background artwork and characters. For those unaware, the two would later go on to found the legendary animation house Studio Ghibli, which should be a strong indicator of the level of care you will find in Go! Panda Go!
With a charming art direction and a vibrant, warm color palette, Go! Panda Go! will make a fine addition to any digital or physical film archive, particularly those interested in preserving the history of animation and children’s films.
Would this film be suitable for an outdoor screening?
Yes, it would. The film’s rich, textured soundtrack with its bright blue skies and colorful characters would make for the perfect outdoor summer movie night.
Does this film have Public Performance Rights available?
Yes, it does, the film’s Public Performance Rights can be purchased for $350.00.
What ages would this children’s film be suitable for?
This film is not rated, however, it will likely be suitable for young children ages 7 and up.