Karate Kid Legends sneaks in some Cobra Kai

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In a nod to the original impact of the 1984 Karate Kid film on the franchise, the latest movie titled Karate Kid Legends subtly links the film series with the popular Cobra Kai TV show.

For most of its duration, Karate Kid Legends primarily focuses on a Chinese boy named Li Fong, who relocates with his mother from Beijing to New York, rather than having strong connections with the Netflix sensation Cobra Kai.

In essence, his voyage mirrors that of the initial Karate Kid hero, Daniel LaRusso, as he encounters a young lady, develops feelings for her, faces bullying from her former partner, and ultimately squares off against him in a karate competition.

Additionally, a substantial side story unfolds with Joshua Jackson portraying a former boxer-turned-pizza parlor owner who is compelled to return to the fighting arena. Consequently, significant action scenes or that unique brand of humor associated with Cobra Kai are limited in the early portions of ‘The Karate Kid Legends’. However, SPOILER ALERT, this tale eventually delves into these aspects.

The Johnny Lawrence cameo no one saw coming

After approximately 50 minutes into the movie, Daniel LaRusso enters the plot, and the Karate Kid Legends series fulfills the expectations set by its concept.

Daniel consents to assist Mr. Han in preparing Li for the upcoming battle, even though their methods and viewpoints have subtle differences – with one rooted in karate and the other in kung fu. However, these distinct approaches can be seen as two unique branches growing from the same mighty martial arts tree.

There was talk about Fong’s adversary fighting like a tiger, necessitating tactics similar to a tiger to respond effectively. It would have been fitting to introduce Johnny Lawrence, the creator of Eagle Fang Karate and a character known from The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai series, during this situation, but unfortunately, that didn’t happen.

With assistance from LaRusso and Han, Fong emerged victorious in the fight, which ultimately resulted in the preservation of the previously mentioned pizzeria.

Later on, Li arranges to have a pizza delivered to Daniel in California as a gesture of gratitude. The accompanying message reads, “Should you ever require assistance, I’m always here for you.

Later, the surprising moment… John was at Daniel’s house, not thrilled about the idea of New York-style pizza. However, it sparked an idea in him to open his own pizzeria named ‘Miyagi-Dough.’ Lawrence kept tossing around phrases like “olives on, olives off,” and “slice first, slice thick, no anchovies,” which is similar to how the movie concludes.

In this scenario, not only does one notable character from Cobra Kai briefly show up in the finale of The Karate Kid: Legends, but the sequence also injects a bit of his witty yet somewhat sarcastic humor, which had been previously absent as the film maintained a sincere and serious tone.

It’s an appropriate guest appearance that remains consistent with his Cobra Kai persona, and might pave the way for a genuine crossover if a sequel is ever made.

The recently released film is currently showing in British theaters, with its U.S. premiere set for May 30, 2025. This gives you an opportunity to delve into our analysis of The Karate Kid Legends’ concluding chapter, as well as understanding the link between Mr. Miyagi and Mr. Han.

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2025-05-28 18:48