Film Review: Karate Kid: Legends
2 min read
“Karate Kid: Legends unites the iconic martial arts masters of one of the most beloved film franchises of all time to tell a completely new story full of action and heart. When kung fu prodigy Li Fong (Ben Wang) relocates to New York City with his mother to attend a prestigious new school, he finds solace in a new friendship with a classmate and her father. But his newfound peace is short-lived after he attracts unwanted attention from a formidable local karate champion. Driven by a desire to defend himself, Li embarks on a journey to enter the ultimate karate competition. Guided by the wisdom of his kung fu teacher, Mr. Han (Jackie Chan), and the legendary Karate Kid, Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio), Li merges their unique styles to prepare for an epic martial arts showdown.” – Sony Pictures UK
Snapshot Review: In the sixth installment of the Karate Kid franchise, Li Fong must become our new hero to fight his own past demons and the menacing Conor Day, whose family impose vicious violence on Li’s local pizza joint. The film, while having a vibrantly youthful feel with the introduction of Li Fong and Mia (played by the emerging Sadie Stanley), also pays homage to characters earlier on in the franchise with joyous reappearances of both Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio.
Mr Han (Jackie Chan) and Daniel La Russo (Ralph Macchio) pair up to train Li Fong for the 5 boroughs karate tournament. At stake, is the future of Mia and her father Victor’s pizzeria who is in debt to the menacing O’Shea family. To heighten the stakes further, the O’Shea family train the violent Conor, who bullies and intimidates Li Fong on his arrival to New York. A showdown is inevitable and past trauma must be overcome for the apprentice to become the master.
Although the plot and many of the defining characters are but a slight variation of all the other movies in the franchise, the film does not overcomplicate itself, delivering a very enjoyable ninety minute story that works for both fans of the franchise and fresh faced newcomers. The film plays it very safe and is definitely almost too predictable with very limited character development. Despite being unambitious, the film does hit its mark of presenting a simple story in a very accessible way. It definitely stuck to the script but the story of the down and out kid using karate as a way to fight back against viscous behaviour still undoubtedly has appeal.
Release Date: 30th May 2025
Genre: Action, Adventure
Cast: Ben Wang, Jackie Chan, Ralph Macchio, Joshua Jackson, Sadie Stanley
