Kung Fu Panda 2

We've already been saying 2011 will be one hell of a year. Now throw into a mix a sequel to one of the best DreamWorks animated movies since Shrek. Kung Fu Panda 2 has official begun production and is slated for release on June 3rd, 2011. Both Jack Black and Angelina Jolie will return for the sequel, which will follow Po, "the world's biggest kung fu fan, as he continues his journey as the chosen one who fulfills an ancient prophesy while mastering the art of kung fu." Screenwriters Jonathan Aibel and Glenn Berger (who also had their own story today as well) will be back, as will producer Melissa Cobb. Jennifer Yuh Nelson, who was the head of story on the first film, will take over directing duties this time around.

We've heard that this was in the works earlier in the summer when Kung Fu Panda first hit theaters, and my reaction then is the same now - this should be exciting to see. I was quite a fan of that movie and would love to see a sequel, but as we all know, sequels don't necessarily mean instant success. Although in the animation world, anything goes. It'll at least be fun to see the lovable Po the Panda return, since he was such a delightfully entertaining character. Thankfully I'm not one of the only ones who loved Kung Fu Panda - most of my moviegoing friends loved the movie more than they thought they would. The only semi-bad news - Kung Fu Panda 2 is due out in 3D. But maybe that isn't such a bad thing after all…