‘Karate Kid: Legends’ Review: Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio in a Sequel Old-Fashioned Enough to Be Likable Retro Corn

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In “Karate Kid: Legends,” one might expect a modernized rehash of the formula, given its status as the sixth installment in a 40-year-old franchise. However, there’s a unique way this movie sets itself apart from the rest. The protagonist, Li Fong (played by Ben Wang), learns kung fu under master Han (Jackie Chan) at a dojo in Beijing, where he perfects an extraordinary move called the dragon kick. This move, a graceful corkscrew spin ending with a powerful foot strike to the opponent’s head, is showcased through fast-paced editing and slow motion, capturing its intricate gymnastics elegantly. This breathtaking display of martial arts is the film’s homage to the four decades of Asian action cinema that have evolved since the original “Karate Kid,” serving as a nod to say, “This isn’t your typical ‘Karate Kid’ story!

As a film enthusiast, I’ve come to appreciate how Li has mastered a unique martial arts style that seamlessly blends kung fu and karate. This fusion is a testament to Mr. Miyagi’s roots in Japan, as well as the subsequent casting of Jackie Chan, who hails from the Hong Kong school after the passing of Noriyuki “Pat” Morita in 2005. In essence, these movies have woven together two distinct fighting traditions into a captivating tale of “two branches, one tree.

Instead of dwelling on domestic chores akin to “Karate Kid,” let me emphasize that “Karate Kid: Legends” offers a unique appeal. The film immediately plunges us into a straightforward, heartfelt narrative that might evoke nostalgia for the ’80s innocence. This is one of the strengths of “Karate Kid: Legends.” It’s a movie that proudly embraces simplicity and earnestness, devoid of irony or complexity, much like a classic analog device. And this is its charm – it’s a straightforward, honest, and uncomplicated film, lasting just 94 minutes, making it a welcome change from the overly bloated and cluttered teenage/kiddie flicks we often see today.

In terms of modernity, how dated does it seem? In his recent apartment in downtown Manhattan, Li develops a bond with Mia, an old classmate who works for her father at a neighborhood pizza parlor. The actress playing Mia, Sadie Stanley, portrays a character that feels reminiscent of pre-social media times, almost like Ally Sheedy from “WarGames.” (Indeed, this is a praiseworthy performance; be sure to watch for Sadie Stanley.) Mia’s former boyfriend, Conor (Aramis Knight), with his styled hair reminiscent of a young Steven Seagal and intense gaze, resembles the antagonist in a John Hughes film. He will eventually serve as Li’s martial arts adversary, and by the time the movie reaches that point, there is a strong collective anticipation to see some dragon-kicking action. However, for Li to prevail, he must overcome a 20th-century predicament: his inability to act when he should have been rescuing his brother.

After a span of four decades, Hollywood finally spotlights an Asian protagonist in “Karate Kid,” and Ben Wang carries this responsibility effortlessly. In the movie “Karate Kid: Legends,” Wang, at just 25 yet appearing youthful, exudes a charm reminiscent of a younger Bruce Lee, though I don’t intend to imply that he mirrors Lee’s kung-fu prowess. Instead, his performance calls to mind the finesse of Lee, embodying the agility that was the counterpoint to his ferocity – a speed that made him appear as swift as a razor blade cutting through opponents.

Among all “Karate Kid” films, the original still stands as the best due to its unique portrayal of Daniel LaRusso’s training under the unconventional Buddhist guidance of Mr. Miyagi. However, “Karate Kid: Legends,” being the first installment in the series post-“Cobra Kai,” is significantly influenced by the popular Netflix series that reunited the grown Daniel and his former rival Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka). The film’s energy seems to stem directly from the show’s lively atmosphere.

For some time, Li takes on the role of trainer, guiding Victor (Joshua Jackson, reminiscent of a gentler George Clooney) in re-entering the boxing ring. However, who trains Li becomes the question. The responsibility falls to Han, arriving from Beijing, and Daniel, portrayed by Macchio with a charismatic maturity. This duo of martial arts masters turns out to be a hilarious combination. Jackie Chan’s enduring charm lies in his polite demeanor masking an unyielding stubbornness – he never gives way. Meanwhile, Macchio, sporting a hairstyle that seems to have traveled through time, showcases his karate skills with a certainty that commands respect.

The structure of the film seems slightly detached from its climactic martial-arts tournament, the 5 Boroughs event held in New York City streets, where fighters from across the city battle it out. Director Jonathan Entwistle doesn’t dwell on this aspect. Instead, the movie swiftly moves through early rounds and focuses on the finale, which takes place at sunset on a Manhattan rooftop, with Li and Conor squaring off while Li uses his hidden weapon, a skill he honed by mastering how to slip under a subway turnstile. “Karate Kid: Legends” is enjoyable and nostalgic, but by the end, you might find yourself thinking, “What a surprising twist!

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2025-05-28 16:16