China: The Panda Adventure MPAA Rating: G Entertainment: +1 1/2 Content: +3

In 1938, Ruth Harkness (Maria Bello) travels to China to collect the ashes of her husband after his death the Min Valley. As she reads his journal about observing the mysterious and elusive giant panda bear, she decides to complete his quest to bring a panda to America. With her husbands interpreter, Quentin (Xia Yu), as a guide, Ruth sets off on an adventurous trek to he husbands last camp. She must contend, not only with river rapids, mountainous terrain and forests, but also with noted hunter Dakar Johnston (Xander Berkeley), her husbands sometimes partner, who wants a panda for show as well. But Johnson doesnt care about taking the panda alive. The beautiful rivers and forests of China are particularly highlighted in the large screen IMAX format and the panda cubs happily roll abound the bamboo forest for the camera. Although lacking in dramatic tension, the story is enjoyable as Ruth overcomes various obstacles along the way and eventually even wins over Johnson.

A blind palm reader seems to tell Ruths future and, while the event foreshadows the storys outcome, the act is not taken seriously. An off-screen shooting of a panda may disturb very young children, but CHINA: THE PANDA ADVENTURE can be enjoyed by the whole family. The end credits include a pitch for the World Wildlife Foundation as it seeks to encourage protection of endangered species like the panda.

Preview Reviewer: Paul Bicking
Distributor: IMAX, 3003 Exposition Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90404