“Karate Kid: Legends” Movie Review

The Karate Kid franchise is one that has been going for over 40 years now and since the original film in 1984, audiences and fans of the franchise have been treated to many different films and the recent Cobra Kai series on Netflix.

Now in 2025, we have ‘Karate Kid: Legends’ but does this film successfully carry on the franchise’s legacy for a new generation?

One thing that is very evident in this film is the plot and structure of the film very much mirrors that of the 1984 Karate Kid film. There are many similarities to that original film that prevent Karate Kid: Legends from feeling fresh and exciting.

There is a noticeable lack of character development in this film for several characters. While there are some returning faces that longtime fans will recognize and love, there’s little to help new viewers connect with them on an emotional level.

A lot of the cinematography in this film felt very basic and unimaginative. For a film centered around the art of karate, you would think they’d use that to their advantage and create something that is visually appealing. Most of the fight sequences and choreographed scenes are well shot and exciting to watch but outside of those moments, there’s not that much that is striking about this film.

In this film audiences see the return of Jackie Chan as Mr. Han as well as the original Karate Kid, Ralph Macchio as Daniel LaRusso. Both actors are welcome additions and share strong on-screen chemistry.

Overall, ‘Karate Kid: Legends’ was enjoyable but its shortcomings often overshadow its more rewarding elements.