Rating: 3.5/5
Synopsis:
After the success of the “Cobra Kai” Netflix series, Sony has decided to reignite the “Karate Kid” franchise on the big screen. We follow Li Fong, a gifted Kung Fu student who relocates to the United States due to his mother’s new position. He makes a local enemy who is a karate champion, who quickly makes Li his next target. Li must lean on his new friend and her father for support, while also gaining allies in Mr. Han and Daniel LaRusso. Can Li overcome this bully like those who came before him?
Positives:
Due to the mixed buzz surrounding the film’s release, I tempered my expectations for this one. The “Karate Kid” franchise is not a series I grew up with. I have only recently introduced myself to the films. I really enjoy the original movie and even find fun in the schlockier sequels. “Karate Kid: Legends” delivers all of the action, humor, and heart of previous entries in the franchise. While it has its problems, the film is surprisingly fun. The characters are what save the film. Ben Wang does a nice job as the new protagonist, this time already possessing skills in the martial arts field. This adds a layer to his training montage as he has to adjust his skillset to fit the realm of karate. His relationship with locals Mia and Victor prove to mix up the formula, where Li is able to showcase his skillset while finding friendship in unexpected ways.
Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio are the veterans of the series, returning in supporting roles to help Li in his high stakes karate tournament. While their performances are short lived, they put a smile on my face. I enjoyed seeing the two different philosophies that have merged into the “Karate Kid” franchise, helping Li see things from multiple perspectives. The first half of the film mixes up the formula, where Li helps Victor train for a boxing match. This idea of youth being able to enlighten even the veterans is a nice change of pace. The fighting choreography is impressive as well. This is a hyper stylized, almost video game style of editing and filming. It is a fresh take on the style of these tournaments which helped in this modern retelling. The film does a really nice job at making the film feel like it takes place in Manhattan. Sometimes audiences can tell that movies taking place in New York are shot elsewhere, so kudos to the filmmakers for getting this detail right. Although the film has its issues, it is still a fun experience for those who enjoy this franchise.
Negatives:
“Karate Kid: Legends” is not without its problems. First time director Jonathan Entwistle does a lot right but has some areas to tidy up. The film’s script lets down the performers throughout the film. Certain times the dialogue feels clunky and the direction of the story doesn’t feel organic. There are segments where characters behave in a way that feels unnatural as the script tells them to do something awkward. The story is also incredibly predictable. I was surprised at the different direction in the first half of the film, touching on new themes and exploring new avenues for the series. But it falls into the trap of following the original’s story to a tee. This makes aspects of the story feel choppy and rushed. Anyone who has seen a “Karate Kid” movie will know exactly where the story is headed. Some of the emotional pieces of the story don’t work as well as I’d hoped (again an awkward direction in the script). This is also true for the villain, who feels very one note. I’m also disappointed that Ralph Macchio is criminally underutilized. It seems like his character was written into the screenplay late into production to sell more tickets. Jackie Chan has some standout humorous moments but his integration into the story also feels shortchanged.
Conclusion:
This new “Karate Kid” entry is a harmless, fun time at the movies. It should please fans of the series despite its entirely predictable plot. I hope it inspires a new generation of fans so that we continue exploring the possibilities within the franchise. The likable characters make up for a weak villain and some clunky technical aspects that hamper the quality of the film. Don’t go in expecting a fresh storyline or anything that will change the game too much. This is an entirely watchable, safely executed story that should provide enough enjoyment to make audiences want to go back and watch the series all over again.
