Panda! Go Panda! (1972) (2022): Cast & Ratings
Panda! Go Panda! (1972) is a 2022 short animated comedy directed by Isao Takahata, starring Kazuko Sugiyama as Mimiko, Kazuo Kumakura and Julie Maddalena. It runs 34 minutes. IMDb users rate it 6.7/10.
- Released
- Runtime
- 34 min
- Director
- Isao Takahata
- Original language
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Japanese
- Studio
- GKIDS
- After the credits
- No No extra scene
What Is Panda! Go Panda! (1972) About?
The premise of Panda! Go Panda! (1972) without spoilers.
When two playful pandas escape from the city zoo, they find themselves in the care of a young girl. The unlikely pair brings joy and unexpected adventures into her life, creating a heartwarming and humorous bond as they navigate a new environment together. Their antics and charm bring laughter and wonder to everyone they meet.
Panda! Go Panda! (1972) Themes & Keywords
· 10 tags- 1970s
- female protagonist
- anime animation
- giant panda
- panda
- cartoon panda
- surrogate family
- grandmother granddaughter relationship
- girl
- animal in title
Panda! Go Panda! (1972) Cast & Characters
Kazuko Sugiyama leads the cast as Mimiko, with Kazuo Kumakura as Papa and Julie Maddalena as Mimiko. Directed by Isao Takahata; 10 actors are credited in all.
-
Director Isao Takahata
- Kazuko Sugiyama as Mimiko
- Kazuo Kumakura as Papa
- Julie Maddalena as Mimiko
- Yasuo Yamada as Cop
Also Starring in Panda! Go Panda! (1972)
· 6 more- Kirk Thornton Teacher
- Melanie MacQueen Grandma
- Melissa Fahn Panny
- Ayao Wada Walla
- Yoshiko Ôta Panny
- Tom Carlton
More from Isao Takahata
More films directed by Isao Takahata, best-rated first: Grave of the Fireflies (1988), The Tale of The Princess Kaguya, Pom Poko and My Neighbors the Yamadas.
Panda! Go Panda! (1972) Reviews & Ratings
IMDb users rate Panda! Go Panda! (1972) 6.7/10. Our Echo Score gives it 81/100, strongest in sensory experience (85) and weakest in story & flow (70).
Panda! Go Panda! (1972) Echo Score Breakdown
Panda! Go Panda! delivers a nostalgic charm rooted in early Studio Ghibli experimentation, drawing most viewers into its lively animation and memorable theme song. While the narrative remains simple and the production values reflect its 1970s origins, the film’s playful visual language and endearing characters sustain engagement, especially for younger audiences. Overall the short succeeds as an accessible, pleasant entry in Miyazaki and Takahata’s formative catalogue.
Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.
- Art & Craft 78
In terms of direction and visual craft, the short showcases expressive movement and a bright colour palette despite its limited animation budget. Critics note the film’s energetic style, while several users point out the simplicity of the production design. The overall impression is that the artwork is competent and evocative of early Ghibli aesthetics, though not as refined as later works.
- Character & Emotion 80
When evaluating character work, reviewers highlight Mimiko’s spirited presence and Papa Panda’s appealing design, which many find endearing. Performances are praised for their accessibility to children, though some users mention a lack of deeper emotional layers. The consensus is that the characters succeed in delivering charm and clear motivations, even if they remain relatively uncomplicated.
- Story & Flow 70
The plot follows a straightforward premise of a girl forming a makeshift family with pandas, which users describe as easy to follow and suitable for young viewers. Positive remarks focus on its whimsical episodes, while criticism targets the limited tension and memorability. Consequently, the story is viewed as functional and pleasant but not particularly innovative or compelling.
- Sensory Experience 85
Sensory experience receives strong commendation through the film’s catchy theme song and lively soundtrack, which users say linger in memory. Visual style is noted as colourful and reminiscent of later Ghibli works, providing a pleasing aesthetic despite modest technical resources. The overall sensory impression is highly favorable, contributing significantly to the short’s appeal.
- Rewatch Factor 78
Rewatch factor is buoyed by the film’s lighthearted tone and repeatable humor, making it attractive for multiple viewings by children and nostalgia‑seeking adults. Some users note the brief runtime and simple structure may limit long‑term novelty, yet the enduring music and charming antics support continued enjoyment. The consensus is that it offers solid replay value for its target audience.
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IMDb 6.7 /10
See on IMDb
Seen Panda! Go Panda! (1972)?
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Articles About Panda! Go Panda! (1972)
Our article about Panda! Go Panda! (1972): “Lost in Translation: How Movies Change in Different Cultures”.
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Culture
Panda! Go Panda! (1972) FAQ: Cast, Runtime & Release Date
Runtime, release date, director, cast, ratings, post-credit scenes and language of Panda! Go Panda! (1972), each answered in a sentence.
How long is Panda! Go Panda! (1972)?
Panda! Go Panda! (1972) runs 34 minutes.
When was Panda! Go Panda! (1972) released?
Panda! Go Panda! (1972) was released on May 6, 2022.
Who directed Panda! Go Panda! (1972)?
Panda! Go Panda! (1972) was directed by Isao Takahata.
More films by Isao Takahata Who is in the cast of Panda! Go Panda! (1972)?
Panda! Go Panda! (1972) stars Kazuko Sugiyama as Mimiko, Kazuo Kumakura as Papa and Julie Maddalena as Mimiko, among 10 credited actors.
How is Panda! Go Panda! (1972) rated?
Panda! Go Panda! (1972) has 6.7/10 on IMDb.
Does Panda! Go Panda! (1972) have a post-credit scene?
No. Panda! Go Panda! (1972) has no extra scene during or after the credits.
What language is Panda! Go Panda! (1972) in?
The original language of Panda! Go Panda! (1972) is Japanese.
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