Kung Fu Panda is perhaps the best non-Pixar CG animated feature I've seen. At the very least, it's on par with the first Shrek.

In Kung Fu Panda, Jack Black provides the voice of Po, a lazy, oafish, goof-ball of a Panda whose plucked from his family's noodle shop and plunged into high octane adventure. Po is shocked to discover that an ancient prophecy suggests that he might bring about the end of evil Tai Lung's reign. Soon, Po finds himself learning the ways of Kung Fu alongside the legendary Furious Five–Tigress, Crane, Mantis, Viper, and Monkey. With the aid of Master Shifu, this two-ton two-tone just may become the hero everyone expects him to be.

What makes this flick so darn special? It's a combination of things. For starters it's visually vibrant and action packed. There isn't a dull moment here. From Tai Lung's spectacularly thrilling prison break to Po's hilarious training montage, this film is simply delightful from beginning to end.

The vocal work here is perfect. Jack Black manages to bring the same sort of zany, kid friendly sensibility he brought to the wonderfully entertaining School of Rock, and just as was the case with that picture, Kung Fu Panda never dumbs things down. While this is certainly family oriented entertainment, it has a surprising amount of edge to it. Dustin Hoffman is outstanding as Master Shifu, Po's wise and unbelievably patient mentor. As a team, Black and Hoffman bring a Miyagi/Danielson vibe to the proceedings, only with a lot more comical banter. Comic heavyweights Seth Rogen, David Cross, and Dan Fogler round out an all star supporting cast that includes Angelina Jolie, Jackie Chan, and Michael Clarke Duncan. These gifted comedians are given plenty of moments to shine, but they never cross that line. You know? That line that Robin Williams constantly over-toed in Happy Feet? Also turning in nice work is a fierce Ian McShane who hits all the right notes as the villainous tiger Tai Lung.

The animation is stunning, particularly the hyper kinetic action sequences. As I sat there watching, I was often reminded of Samurai Jack and Kill Bill of all things. Rest assured though parents, this isn't a Tarantino movie. It's far less extreme.

Kung Fu Panda is an energetic feast for the eyes, but what really took me by surprise was it's great big heart. There's a lot of warmth and charm to go along with all the kung fu razzle dazzle. This is that rare animated treat that manages to entertain both children and adults. Simply put, this is one of the most engaging films of the summer.

On a side note, Kung Fu Panda is playing on Imax screens. That's certainly the way to see it.