- “Who am I to judge a warrior based on his size. I mean, look at me.”
- ―Mantis to Po.[src]
Master Mantis (or just Mantis) is a Kung Fu master and a major character in the DreamWorks Kung Fu Panda franchise.
Background
Strong, fast and tiny, Mantis possesses a mean temper and is ready to "throw down" at the slightest insult. He's quick to interject humor into any situation. Nothing can strike fear into his brave little heart… except female mantis. Mantis is very pragmatic and open-minded with a dry sense of humor. Declaring size did little to define a warrior and could actually be used as an advantage no matter what style one practices. Due to his small size, he hates being referred to as "little". He also seems to have a close bond with Master Monkey because he's is always perched on Monkey's shoulder.
Master Mantis specializes in North Praying Mantis Kung Fu. His fighting style is speedy, calculating, responsive, hard, complicated and precise. Mantis' small size and incredible speed make him nearly invisible to opponents, an advantage that he uses to great effect. He can leap and run as fast a praying mantis pouncing on their prey.
In addition, Mantis also possesses enormous strength that one wouldn't think at first sight. He's able to lift a bridge burdened by 4 animals, create wave on it and pull it to him with great effort. His powerful, high leaping rare legs and reportorial forelegs are used as defensive weapons. His species is a Chinese Praying Mantis.
Gallery
Trivia
- In early story development, Mantis was originally a traitor in league with Tai Lung.
- In the Disney film Chip and Dale Rescue Rangers, he, along with B.O.B. from Monsters vs Aliens and Pumbaa from the 2019 live-action Lion King film, appear commenting on how Bob the Dwarf's eyes look weird. This is a reference to how all four characters are voiced by Seth Rogen.
