Following the success and conclusion of Cobra Kai; the franchise continues with “Karate Kid: Legends”. The sixth theatrical film blends the classic series with the 2010 remake via clever use of a clip and narrative from “The Karate Kid II”.
The film is a loose remake of the original in parts as it focuses on a young man who is recently relocated and runs afoul of a gang who he fights in a tournament.
This time around the focus is on Li Fong (Ben Wang) who must adapt to New York when his mother moves them from Bejing.
His friendship with a local girl named Mia (Sadie Stanley) angers her violent ex and sets the film into motion.
What makes this film different is Li has his uncle (Jackie Chan) in his corner and in time; Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) which allows for a mixture of Kung Fu and Karate instruction.
The influence of Jackie Chan is clear in the early action as his acrobatic blend of action and comedy as well as his clever use of props is evident.
While the plot is very predictable; it is easy to pull for the characters and people were cheering and applauding during the final tournament.
In the end the movie is an enjoyable entry even with a thin and predictable plot. The cast including supporting work by Joshua Jackson makes the film an ideal diversion for fans of the series.
3 stars out of 5
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