The story is about a rather ordinary citizen becoming more than he himself or others can imagine. The main character, Po (Jack Black), is a panda that works in his family's noodle business. He dreams of being a great martial arts master. He tries to attend a ceremony where the most powerful master will be chosen and seemingly accidentally is chosen himself as the one with the innate power to guard all against the impending evil. The dangerous snow leopard Tai Lung (Ian McShane) is coming and somehow Po must defend the people of the city. The great and wise Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman) amazed by the ancient prophecy fulfilled by the very ordinary and unskilled Po, must train him. He will be assisted, although begrudgingly, by his Furious five: the legendary Tigress (Angelina Jolie); Crane (David Cross); Viper (Lucy Liu); Monkey (Jackie Chan); and Mantis (Seth Rogen). They were all astounded at the choosing of Po versus any of themselves for the most honored position, of course. Ultimately, Po must find the courage and strength within himself to do the job. It is a story of reaching our own inner power, which makes it identifyable to all.