

HD
1h 44m
Score: 6.4 / 10 rated
Action, Drama, Family, Sport
Jonathan Entwistle
United States, Canada
May 30, 2025
Summary of the story
From the moment the credits roll, you’ll be amazed by the sheer joy and heart-felt emotion that Karate Kid: Legends delivers. The film isn’t just good. It’s amazing, hitting all the sweet spots while forging a powerful new path for the franchise. It’s pure, unadulterated adrenaline-fueled cinematography and heartwarming wit! As a die-hard Karate Kid fan from the 80s, my all-time favorite film, I feel like this is a true love letter to those of us who have been with the franchise for 40 years. The story of young Li Fong (Ben Wang), a kung fu master who finds himself transported from Beijing to the bustling streets of New York City, is instantly relatable and deeply engaging. Ben Wang is a complete revelation, bringing a remarkable blend of vulnerability, determination, and raw talent to the screen. His journey of adjustment, self-discovery, and facing new challenges is the heart of the film, and you’ll find yourself rooting for him every step of the way.
But what really elevates Legends to extraordinary heights is the incredible combination of franchise icons. Seeing Jackie Chan as Mr. Han and Ralph Macchio as Daniel LaRusso share the screen is nothing short of amazing. Their chemistry is undeniable, delivering not only great fight sequences but also deep, humorous dialogue and direction. The way their distinct styles—Mr. Han’s kung fu and Daniel-san’s Miyagi-Do karate—come together to train Li Fong is beautifully executed, symbolizing the idea that “two branches, one tree” truly create an unstoppable force.
Director Jonathan Entwistle does an incredible job of honoring the rich history of the Karate Kid universe while breathing new life into it. The action sequences are crisp, powerful, and expertly choreographed, while the film simultaneously moves in emotional depth, exploring themes of overcoming personal tragedy and the importance of family. The Karate Kid: Legend (2025) stands out as a true triumph, gripping and delivering intense action. Do yourself a favor and watch this film on the biggest screen possible - it's an inspiring and feel-good cinematic experience!