Black, Hoffman star in 'Panda' follow-up

HOLLYWOOD, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- Hollywood actors Jack Black and Dustin Hoffman reprise their characters from "Kung Fu Panda" in the "Panda" DVD follow-up "Secrets of the Furious Five."

The new adventure from DreamWorks Animation SKG is about the origins of the martial arts masters from "Panda." It is slated for release as a single-disc DVD March 24 through Paramount Home Entertainment. It is also to air on NBC Feb. 26.

"Five" recently won Annie Awards for Best Character Animation, Character Design, Music and Production Design in an Animated Television Production or Short Form, following the path of "Kung Fu Panda," which took home 10 awards, including animation's highest honor, Best Animated Feature.

DreamWorks said "Secrets of the Furious Five" "delves into the history of the fearless defenders of the Valley of Peace as they perform thrilling feats of bravery in exciting exploits that also deliver heartwarming life lessons."

"This time, Dragon Warrior Po faces what may be his greatest challenge -- teaching a class of beginning Kung Fu students. Drawing on his encyclopedic Kung Fu fan-boy knowledge, Po captivates his rambunctious young scholars with the early tales of Monkey, Tigress, Mantis, Viper and Crane, revealing how they unlocked important teachings about the art and ideals of Kung Fu, including patience, courage, confidence, discipline and compassion," DreamWorks said.