The first trailer for “Karate Kid: Legends” has debuted, showcasing a unique blend of talents from different generations within the beloved franchise. Ralph Macchio, the original star of the iconic 1984 film trilogy and Netflix’s hit series “Cobra Kai,” reunites with Jackie Chan, who portrayed the karate instructor Mr. Han in the 2010 remake of the classic film.
Directed by Jonathan Entwistle, “Legends” features Ben Wang in the role of a young karate student, along with a talented supporting cast that includes Joshua Jackson, Sadie Stanley, Ming-Na Wen, Aramis Knight, and Wyatt Oleff. The screenplay is penned by Rob Lieber.
The “Karate Kid” franchise began with the sleeper hit of 1984, which followed Macchio’s character, Daniel LaRusso, as he navigated challenges after moving from the East Coast to San Fernando Valley. Under the wise guidance of Mr. Miyagi, played by Pat Morita, Daniel rises against the odds to become a champion martial artist. The success of the original film led to two sequels and a fourth installment featuring Hilary Swank. The 2010 film introduced a fresh perspective with Jaden Smith starring alongside Chan.
“Cobra Kai,” which premiered on YouTube Red in 2018 and later found a home on Netflix, captured the hearts of audiences and became a significant hit for the streaming platform. The series is set to conclude with its sixth season, releasing its final episodes in February.
“Karate Kid: Legends” is set for release by Columbia and Sony on May 30, promising to continue the legacy of this cherished franchise by bridging various generations of fans.
The excitement surrounding the return of beloved characters and the introduction of new ones reflects the enduring appeal of the “Karate Kid” series, showing how the themes of resilience and mentorship transcend generations.