A new installment in the beloved “Karate Kid” franchise, titled “Karate Kid: Legends,” is set to hit theaters on May 30. This upcoming film promises to excite fans of the original series and introduce fresh talent to the mix.
Returning to the spotlight are Ralph Macchio, who reprises his iconic role as Daniel LaRusso, and Jackie Chan, known for his role as Mr. Han in the 2010 reboot. The film introduces young actor Ben Wang as a new character, Li Fong, who embarks on a journey to master martial arts under the guidance of both LaRusso and Mr. Han. Wang was selected following a global talent search that attracted thousands of aspiring actors, credited to his impressive array of martial arts skills, including karate, kung fu, and taekwondo.
Wang expressed his excitement in an interview, highlighting that he was the perfect age for the story when the original film was released and reflecting on his experiences in Beijing, where part of the film takes place. He shared a personal connection to Jackie Chan, stating that Chan was instrumental in shaping his view of acting from a young age.
In addition to the core cast, the film will feature Ming-Na Wen as Li Fong’s mother, along with Joshua Jackson and Sadie Stanley in supporting roles. The film is directed by Jonathan Entwistle, known for his work on popular Netflix series, with a screenplay by Rob Lieber.
With its blend of nostalgia and new talent, “Karate Kid: Legends” has the potential to appeal to both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers, fostering a sense of continuity within a beloved series. The exciting convergence of seasoned actors and fresh faces highlights the film’s dedication to bridging the past with the present while introducing the art of martial arts to a broader audience.