Karate Kid: Legends

 

"Karate Kid: Legends" offered a surprisingly enjoyable cinematic experience, even if its narrative felt a bit lukewarm at times. What truly elevates this film is its exceptional fight choreography. The way the camera moves, capturing every punch, kick, and block, gives the action a truly visceral and cool feel. And the final fight? That was a class act, a masterclass in cinematic martial arts. It's quite brutal in its execution, reminiscent of the intense, no-holds-barred sequences found in Cobra Kai (though I haven't seen every season, the comparison still holds).

The character dynamics, while leaning heavily into nostalgia, largely work. It's genuinely great to see the legendary Mr. Han and LaRusso on screen together, especially with their distinctly different fighting styles complementing each other. However, the true standout performance comes from Ben Wang as Li Fong. Wang showcases an incredible acting range, seamlessly transitioning from moments of humor to intense tension, deeply felt trauma, and raw drama. He's a captivating presence and a strong addition to the franchise.

My biggest gripe, however, lies squarely with the product placement. It's not just present; it's blatant, prominent, and incredibly pushy. I understand that movie collaborations with brands are a reality for promotion, but the execution here feels forced and disrupts the viewing experience. To any future productions with product tie-ins: please, integrate them more subtly. Don't shove them in our faces.

Ultimately, "Karate Kid: Legends" is a mixed bag, but its fight sequences and the standout performance from Ben Wang make it worth watching for fans of the franchise and action cinema.

Credits:

Directed by: Jonathan Entwistle

Written by: Rob Lieber

Based on:  The Karate Kid by Robert Mark Kamen

Produced by: Karen Rosenfelt

Starring: Jackie Chan, Ben Wang, Joshua Jackson, Sadie Stanley, Ming-Na Wen, Wyatt Oleff, Aramis Knight, and Ralph Macchio

Cinematography: Justin Brown

Edited by: Dana E. Glauberman

Music by: Dominic Lewis

Production companies: Columbia Pictures and Sunswept Entertainment

Distributed by: Sony Pictures Releasing

Release date: May 30, 2025

Running time: 94 minutes