KARATE KID: LEGENDS works better than it should, thanks to the chemistry of its leading actors. Within a few minutes of the opening, I looked over at my nephew and said, “I could predict what happens in this movie.” He said, “No, thanks.” However, I jotted it down and got each story beat correct, predicting where it was going. That’s not to say that I’m a movie savant; it’s more a testament to how a film like the KARATE KID can be so by-the-books and still be captivating enough to entertain audiences.
Where LEGENDS struggles the most is in its first act. There are about eight montages that rush the story forward so that the film’s protagonist, Li Fong (Ben Wang), can begin his hero’s journey. Yet, once it gets going, it’s highly entertaining watching the breakout star (Wang) and Victor (Joshua “Pacey” Jackson) spar with each other.
The real stars in the film are Han (Jackie Chan) and LaRusso (Ralph Macchio). Despite not having enough screen time together, their chemistry is hilarious and helps the film stick the landing. It’s clear that Sony hopes this film is successful so they can create a Karate Kid Cinematic Universe. And as a KARATE KID and COBRA KAI fan, I’d gladly accept more films and TV Series within this universe.
There’s nothing in KARATE KID: LEGENDS that audiences haven’t seen before. Yet, that’s okay since you can check your brain at the door, eat a bunch of popcorn, and see the “Tiger Trap” on the big screen.
It’s playing in theaters now.