In a nostalgic revival of the beloved franchise, “Karate Kid: Legends” features a star-studded cast and a fresh storyline that promises to captivate audiences. Directed by Jonathan Entwistle, the film explores a whole new world while bringing back some “old friends” from the original series. Ben Wang stars as Li Fong, a young martial artist navigating challenges in the “5 Boroughs” karate tournament, while Ming-Na Wen plays his mother.
Jackie Chan reprises his role as Uncle Han in the movie. Of course, Ralph Macchio returns as everyone’s favorite teen karate master, Daniel LaRusso! William Zabka reprises the role of Johnny Lawrence, kicking off yet another round of a decades-long schoolyard rivalry. The film culminates in an Over the Rainbow-esque reunion between Daniel and Johnny. They jokingly come up with plans for a pizzeria named “Miyagi-Dough.”
Entwistle, a huge fan of “Cobra Kai,” was excited by the idea of taking the IP. The continuity between the series and the films was key, he argued. Conversations between Entwistle and the creators of “Cobra Kai,” Jon Hurwitz, Josh Heald, and Hayden Schlossberg, took place prior to the movie’s production, ensuring a cohesive narrative.
“I was excited about the idea that the films and the series can all be part of one family,” – Jonathan Entwistle
Despite their previous connections to “Cobra Kai,” Hurwitz, Heald, and Schlossberg did not participate in “Karate Kid: Legends.” Heald noted their early involvement in discussions about the film’s direction.
“We sat down with John two years ago when they were very early on, and we had read an earlier script, and it became clear that [the movie] was something else entirely,” – Josh Heald
Joshua Jackson as Victor, a pizza parlor owner who adds a fresh dynamic to the story. The film’s karate tournament serves as a backdrop for character development, allowing audiences to witness Li Fong’s growth as a martial artist while exploring familial relationships.
