A new chapter in the iconic “Karate Kid” franchise is on the horizon as Sony unveils the official trailer for “Karate Kid: Legends,” scheduled to hit theaters on May 30. This exciting installment reunites Ralph Macchio, known for his role as Daniel LaRusso since the original 1984 film, with Jackie Chan, who portrayed Mr. Han in the 2010 remake.
Introducing a fresh talent to the series, Ben Wang steps into the shoes of Li Fong, a new student who becomes Daniel and Mr. Han’s protégé. Wang’s casting followed a global search announced by Chan and Macchio, which attracted thousands of young hopefuls. His diverse martial arts expertise, spanning karate, wing chun/kung fu, gumdo, kempo, and taekwondo, played a significant role in his selection.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Wang expressed his unique connection to the film, stating, “I was the target audience when that movie came out. I was exactly the age of the character.” He noted the film’s setting in Beijing resonated with him, having just returned from a year in the city, and shared his admiration for Jackie Chan, who inspired his understanding of acting.
The cast also includes Ming-Na Wen as Li Fong’s mother, alongside Joshua Jackson and Sadie Stanley. The film will be directed by Jonathan Entwistle, known for his work on Netflix’s “I Am Not Okay With This,” with a screenplay written by Rob Lieber of “Peter Rabbit.” Karen Rosenfelt serves as the producer.
This upcoming film not only aims to capture the spirit of the beloved franchise but also hopes to inspire a new generation of fans and martial artists, showcasing fresh talent in the process. The combination of esteemed veterans and new faces promises an exciting adventure that celebrates the legacy of the “Karate Kid” while paving the way for future stories in this cherished series.