Jack Black displayed his kung fu skills with the help of almost 40 huge "pandas" as the 61st Cannes Film Festival kicked off.

Black is promoting his new film Kung Fu Panda, which also stars Dustin Hoffman, Angelina Jolie and Lucy Liu.

He was greeted at the Carlton Hotel in the French town by life-size versions of Po, the hero of the animated film, for which he provides the voice.

Black told the media: "Now I will teach you kung fu" and performed a series of twirls and kicks, to laughter and applause, before declaring: "Together we will create an international panda sensation."

Po is described as a clumsy kung fu fan who works in his family's noodle shop. He is unexpectedly chosen to fulfil an ancient prophecy and join the kung fu world.

The Dream Works Animation release is scheduled for its worldwide premiere, screening out of competition, during the festival.

© Independent Television News Limited 2008. All rights reserved.