Moving to Fullfill Destiny — Karate Kid: Legends Movie Review

After a 15-year break, “The Karate Kid” franchise returns to the big screen with some familiar faces. However, like many movie sequels, determining whether this film would live up to its predecessors was the test. Though I think this was a great movie, I’m not sure if I will be adding it to my list to watch back-to-back like I did with the 2010 film.

Now, up front, I will tell you that as I was coming out of the theater, there was chatter among individuals who have kept up with the franchise since its launch in 1984. Some commented that other things could have been added to make the film better or more “legendary.” If you have followed “The Karate Kid” storyline from when it first started, you may also have the same experience, or you may feel nostalgic and feel like everything played out as it should have.

I was hoping to see Jaden Smith, who starred in the 2010 film, make an appearance, especially since there was a reference to the “jacket on, jacket off” technique. Not that his appearance is necessary, but it crossed my mind. I honestly have never seen the original Karate Kid films (I know, shame on me). However, I know the original Karate Kid of the franchise- Daniel LaRusso, played by Ralph Macchio.

So, what exactly makes this film stand out from the ones in the past (or at least the 2010 film)? The fighter or main character still moves from home to a foreign place. The main character, Li Fong played by Ben Wang has to move from China to New York City with his mother who is a doctor. This causes Li to leave Mr. Han (Jackie Chan) and his Kung Fu teachings as Li’s mother instructs him to no longer fight. Li’s mother believes that fighting or practicing Kung Fu led to her other son’s death.

The death of Li’s brother is the central conflict he must overcome to move forward. Like many films, obstacles are always present. However, boxing or martial arts movies seem to carry a different weight compared to other genres when approaching conflict. The fact that the character is already physically fighting and then internally fighting helps to reach the viewer in a compelling way.

We saw this in the Rocky/Creed franchise where the main character is fighting an internal struggle, and someone comes along the way to serve as strength and direction for the fighter’s path. The relationship then becomes reciprocal. This is also done very well in this movie, where Li befriends a pizza owner’s daughter and even ends up helping her father.

“Knowing what you are fighting for” is still the principle or foundation for any fighter’s journey. Jackie Chan, who was foundational in the 2010 Karate Kid film, continues to serve as a guiding figure in his role. Mr. Han, who was once broken from losing his family in the 2010 film, is now able to serve as a source of strength to Li. Mr. Han emphasizes to Li that even though his mother is against fighting, Li cannot escape what he has been called or destined to do.

Like many of us, we go through life running away from hurt or trying to avoid what we naturally gravitate to out of respect for those we love. The risk of doing so can leave you feeling empty or lost. However, walking in your purpose with the support of your loved ones brings fulfillment. It is not until towards the end of the movie that Li’s mother has this insight that he must compete.

We see throughout the film that anything associated with the death of his brother causes Li to freeze. This trauma response was something that Li had to make peace with before his competition. He had to forgive himself for not stepping in to render aid. Carrying guilt or shame into another battle was not going to allow Li to succeed. This reminded me of a similar scenario in the movie “Stomp the Yard” starring Chris Brown and Columbus Short.

When it comes to getting in the ring or mat to fight, one has to focus. As he was preparing for his competition, Mr. Han sought the help of LaRusso, a former student of Mr. Miyagi, who is the karate martial arts teacher in the original series. As the movie progressed, I started to wonder if it was necessary to include LaRusso. At the same time, there is something special about paying homage to the past. The phrase “two branches, one tree” is the philosophy used to combine Han’s Kung Fu teachings with Miyagi’s Karate teachings to help Li win the competition.

This merger was the only way to fulfill Li’s ability to pull off the “Tiger Trap” that his brother initially tried to teach him. In order for him to trap his opponent, LaRusso suggests combining karate and Kung Fu. By combining their practices, we really get to see the comical side of Jackie Chan. It made me think about his acting and humor in the “Rush Hour” movies. I am not familiar with Ralph Macchio, but seeing his humor and acting was a great introduction to me, and I’m sure to others who have not seen the original series.

As I reflect on “The Karate Kid” franchise, I believe this is the first time that an Asian fighter is the underdog. Not because of his knowledge or skillset, but again, to accommodate his mother’s wishes. In the past films, an American must learn the ways of karate or Kung Fu, which makes them the underdog. Nevertheless, the protagonist is often bullied, similar to this film. The fact that the bully or antagonist is a skilled American martial artist made this film a neat turn. Of course, this is also because the antagonist often has the home-field advantage.

Overall, it’s a touching story. However, there is something about the previous film that drew me in. I feel like the previous film allows the viewer to see various character struggles and resonate with them. Therefore, each character’s individual story, in addition to the overall message, stays with you and becomes memorable. The 2010 film pursues the idea of new beginnings and new battles. This film shows that sometimes we have to visit the past and return to the foundation to move forward into our destiny. Who knows? Maybe I will watch it again.

Since its premiere on May 30, 2025, “Karate Kid: Legends” has grossed about $52 million worldwide. According to reports online, it earned $20 million during its opening weekend. Check your local theater to see it. Also, if you have not seen a movie while sitting in the D-BOX section at a theater yet, this may be a great time to check it out. Proceed with caution because every punch and kick you will also feel.

To learn more about this movie, visit https://www.sonypictures.com/movies/karatekidlegends