A new chapter in the beloved “Karate Kid” series is on the horizon, with the recent unveiling of the official trailer for “Karate Kid: Legends,” set to hit theaters on May 30. This eagerly anticipated installment reunites Ralph Macchio, the original Daniel LaRusso from the iconic 1984 film, and Jackie Chan, who portrayed Mr. Han in the 2010 remake.
The film features Ben Wang as a new character named Li Fong, who is set to be the latest disciple of both LaRusso and Mr. Han. Wang was selected from a global talent search that attracted thousands of hopeful young actors, showcasing his impressive background in various martial arts disciplines, including karate, wing chun, gumdo, kempo, and taekwondo.
Wang expressed his excitement, noting the personal connection he feels to the franchise. “I was the target audience when that movie came out,” he shared. His experiences, including a year living in Beijing and a childhood spent enjoying Jackie Chan’s films, make this role particularly meaningful to him.
The film also includes performances from Ming-Na Wen as Li Fong’s mother, as well as Joshua Jackson and Sadie Stanley. Jonathan Entwistle, known for his work on Netflix series such as “I Am Not Okay With This,” will direct “Karate Kid: Legends,” from a screenplay penned by Rob Lieber, the writer behind “Peter Rabbit.” Karen Rosenfelt will produce the film.
This new addition to the franchise not only bridges generations of fans but also introduces fresh talent and perspectives. With its combination of nostalgia and new beginnings, “Karate Kid: Legends” has the potential to inspire a new wave of martial arts enthusiasts and captivate audiences around the world.
In summary, “Karate Kid: Legends” promises an exciting continuation of the story that celebrates mentorship, tradition, and the power of martial arts, making it a must-watch for fans both old and new.