The popular martial arts drama movie “Karate Kid: Legends” (PG-13) is now playing in theaters. It’s the sixth installment of the ‘Karate Kid’ franchise, continuing the story from the 2010 film “The Karate Kid” and the 2018 television series “Cobra Kai.” I’m excited to share that the talented Jackie Chan, whom I had the pleasure of interviewing in Chicago a few years ago, reprised his role as a Kung Fu trainer.
Newcomer Ben Wang stars as the new karate kid, Li Wen, who is both a skilled fighter and an endearing young man. The film is enjoyable primarily due to its cast. An amusing aspect is that Li is referred to as the “Chinese Peter Parker,” and I can easily envision him in a role similar to that of Tom Holland in “The Karate Kid.” The supporting cast is also strong; Li’s mother, played by Ming-Na Wen, is unhappy about her son’s karate training and fears that he might compete in a match. We learn that she lost a son in a fight years ago, which adds depth to her character. After moving from China to New York City, she hopes that Li’s fighting days are behind him.
The film begins with a scene from “The Karate Kid Part II,” featuring the wise Mr. Miyagi, played by Pat Morita, as he shares his family’s karate journey with his student, Daniel LaRusso, portrayed by Ralph Macchio. This scene is expanded to highlight that Miyagi-go karate is also influenced by kung fu.
Early in the film, Li encounters Mia, played by Sadie Stanley, a local girl who works with her father, played by Joshua Jackson, a former kung fu fighter who now owns a pizzeria. Li assists Mia in delivering pizzas, which does not sit well with Mia’s ex-boyfriend, the former city karate champion.
The film is quite predictable, as it’s clear early on that it will culminate in a kung fu match with the protagonist’s nemesis, which serves as the central theme. However, I actually enjoyed these scenes, particularly because they were filmed on a rooftop with a stunning view of New York City. I also appreciated the appearance of William Zabka, the former Cobra Kai star who played Johnny Lawrence near the end of the film. It left me wondering if there might be another film featuring Zabka. While “Karate Kid: Legends 2” has not been confirmed, it could potentially be released in the next couple of years.
Sarah Knight Adamson© June 3, 2025
Hollywood 360 Radio Podcast of “Karate Kid: Legends” will post after the broadcast this Saturday evening.