Cobra Kai Recap: My Right Foot

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Almost at the finish line now, let’s pause for a moment to appreciate what an achievement the creators of Cobra Kai have managed here. Yes, it’s true that this show can be quite absurd, and perhaps my recaps sometimes give off an impression of analyzing it as if it’s high literature, as one viewer pointed out during season four. However, occasionally it’s enjoyable to reflect on the fact that we’re not just watching any ordinary program. Reflecting on this, consider how many minor characters or brief moments from the original Karate Kid and its largely disappointing sequels have been cleverly reinvented or developed for this revival series, more than four decades later?

During the Kreese scenes this week, I pondered over his character development. While he hasn’t always been consistent throughout the six seasons, some of his parts and narratives seem overly dramatic, particularly in the numerous melancholic flashbacks to his younger days. However, it’s clear that Kreese has evolved into a more complex character than the one-dimensional ’80s antagonist he once was. Now, he’s genuinely trying to make amends with the students he let down: first Tory, whom he treated like a pawn in his own conflict, and then Johnny, who bore the brunt of his trauma and resentment for three and a half decades.

The entire series, essentially, revolves around the tense finale from “The Karate Kid” when Kreese strangles Johnny following his defeat at the All Valley tournament against Daniel. This pivotal scene in the parking lot sets up the intriguing premise of “Cobra Kai”: a redemption story for an older, troubled Johnny Lawrence who continues to grapple with that loss and is tormented by the mistreatment from his cruel sensei. The return of Kreese now, back in the same parking lot where it all began, adds depth and tension to their complex relationship and acting performances.

In a poignant conversation following the boys’ semifinals, it seems their interaction truly reached its climax. Johnny has often reprimanded Kreese throughout the series, but it’s here that he bares his soul, tears streaming down his face as he recounts the profound impact his mentor has had on him over the years. (William Zabka delivers an exceptional performance.) The scene in the parking lot remains the most painful memory of his life, teaching him some deeply flawed lessons. If not for Kreese, Johnny would have maintained a good sportsperson’s attitude even in defeat; as Kreese himself acknowledges, the boy initially responded with, “You’re all right, LaRusso.” The pivotal moment that shaped Johnny’s future outlook was the confrontation with Kreese outside, which shattered his faith in both himself and others.

Let’s first discuss the tournament before moving on to Johnny’s return to Cobra Kai. First, the rules are explained, followed by a moment of respect for Kwon. In this fight, Robby and Axel engage, with Axel showing off unexpected new moves that put Robby at a disadvantage. Despite being caught off guard, Robby manages to reduce the gap in their contest. Upon Sensei Wolf’s command and Silver’s approval, Axel chooses an extreme strategy: breaking his opponent’s leg.

Previously on our show, we’ve had similar scenes, and they’re no longer as shocking as they once were. However, witnessing Robby in distress on the mat, accepting defeat while the ref unwilling to disqualify the clear offender, remains unsettling. Despite this, Robby maintains an optimistic perspective. After all, karate has been instrumental in his achievements. Although the world may not acknowledge his potential victory, he knows, and that realization will have to suffice.

When Robby outperformed Miguel and assumed the role of captain during this season, I initially believed it could be his moment to excel and clinch a tournament victory. However, in several aspects, this prediction aligns more with his character development: Robby possesses extraordinary skill and might even rank among the greatest ever, but he’s not fated to emerge victorious. In a sense, inflicting another defeat upon him and compelling him to confront that loss is a more considerate and fulfilling approach than simply granting him a win for the sake of balance.

I’m grappling with similar challenges, albeit from a slightly different perspective. With Robby absent, the point difference almost guarantees that Miyagi-Do will struggle to clinch victory at the Sekai Taikai. If it’s not about defending my dojo anymore, and if the rivalry with Tory no longer fuels me, then what am I really fighting for? My father isn’t ready with a pep talk this time around; he’s still wrestling with his own Miyagi-Do demons, symbolized by that recurring nightmare where he’s assaulted by men in skeleton costumes.

In a different phrase, Daniel manages to push through his personal struggles significantly when an artificial intelligence character resembling Mr. Miyagi appears in his dream, ready to lend a hand and share advice. However, I find it somewhat disconcerting to see Pat Morita and the famous character brought back in this manner; aside from ethical concerns, it seems out of place, glimmery, and odd, which lessens the impact of a crucial character moment. For six seasons, Daniel has been grappling with his emotions towards his renowned mentor, and until now, he didn’t require a direct dream confrontation with the man. I would have preferred to see him handle this situation independently or consult someone else who was familiar with Miyagi – even if we had to resort to a dream discussion, perhaps with a younger version of the sensei himself.

Ignoring that matter, it’s great to observe Daniel recalling the essence of Miyagi-Do, which is not merely about winning fights but rather avoiding them altogether. This timely reminder is particularly relevant now as Sam has chosen to step aside, allowing Tory to compete against Zara in the finals. Both father and daughter have come to terms with a potential loss from Miyagi-Do. However, Johnny, who seems less content with taking a backseat, appears to require this experience more urgently than his fellow sensei might feel. His need for it feels authentic.

With Daniel seeming to agree, he jumps over to Cobra Kai, enrolling Miguel as the substitute for Kwon in the finals. Frankly, I understand Wolf’s sentiment when he exclaims “This is unfair! How can they change competitors like that?” It does strike one as odd that the dojos of the finalists can freely exchange students and coaches. However, it follows a certain reasoning within the Cobra Kai universe given Johnny’s and Miguel’s past ties to Cobra Kai, and with Kreese’s consent, at least according to the show’s logic.

Apart from Cobra Kai, Miyagi-Do, and Eagle Fang dojos have been exchanging students and instructors since their inception, so it’s no wonder that the series is shaking things up one last time as it approaches its final act – a climactic reclaiming of the title dojo. The image of Miguel, dressed in black attire, with Johnny confined behind him, serves as a full-circle moment, harkening back to season one and resurrecting the most endearing sensei-student pair. Essentially, Cobra Kai revolves around reminiscing, with history constantly repeating itself, making it appropriate to maintain this theme until the very end.

Mr. Miyagi’s Little Trees

I pondered if there would be any more appearances from ‘The Karate Kid’, and indeed, there is! The guest referee for the World Tournament is Darryl Vidal (portrayed by the actor and martial artist of the same name), the other semifinalist whose butt Johnny Lawrence kicks during the All Valley in the original film. Although it’s a small part, it’s enjoyable to notice how the series continues to bring back as many characters as possible.

• Terry Silver has six months to live, max, and he is not handling it well.

In simpler terms, Wolf hitting Axel mirrors Kreese and Johnny’s dynamic, but we fervently wish that Wolf can escape from his master’s control to avoid doing something regrettable for the rest of his life (hopefully, he hasn’t done so already).

It’s great that Chris and Mitch are catching the semifinals, but we haven’t spotted many young students in the recent episodes, including Devon, Anthony, and others like Kenny. Even though their individual stories seem to have wrapped up, it would be delightful to see the entire class unite in the final episodes, even if it’s not for a Miyagi-Do victory celebration.

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2025-02-14 00:54