INTRODUCTION :
Ben Wang, the lead in “Karate Kid: Legends,” was introduced to the original “Karate Kid” film during his childhood, largely due to his aunt’s admiration for it.
In contrast, his co-star Aramis Knight, who is also 25, had not seen the classic until he was cast in the latest installment. The film’s director, Jonathan Entwistle, born in 1984—the same year the original movie premiered—discovered the franchise through the popular Netflix series “Cobra Kai.”
Meanwhile, Ralph Macchio, the original Karate Kid, has been part of this beloved franchise since its inception, long before the iconic phrase “wax on, wax off” became a cultural reference.
Macchio understands the enduring appeal of his character, Daniel LaRusso, and he believes that audiences will similarly connect with Wang’s character, Li Fong, as they continue to explore the themes of growth and resilience within the series.
The character is grappling with an internal conflict that differs somewhat from the challenges I faced in my earlier years; however, the essence remains the same: you find yourself cheering for those you genuinely care about.
This is the heart of storytelling, as articulated by Macchio. He expresses optimism that this innovative approach, set to resonate with families in 2025, will fulfill its purpose of providing entertainment that appeals to a wide audience.
“Legends,” set to hit theaters on May 30, further enriches the Miyagi-verse, a term that pays homage to the iconic Mr. Miyagi, portrayed by the late Pat Morita.
This new installment introduces kung fu master Mr. Han, played by Jackie Chan, who first appeared in the 2010 reboot of “Karate Kid.”
The narrative draws parallels to the original film, as it follows the journey of Li, a young martial artist who relocates from Beijing to Brooklyn, where he encounters Conor, a karate champion who embodies the role of the antagonist.
In a bid to support his struggling friend Victor, portrayed by Joshua Jackson, Li decides to participate in a martial arts competition with a cash prize. Recognizing the need for assistance, Mr. Han reaches out to Daniel LaRusso, seeking his expertise in karate, a connection that is rooted in the shared legacy of their mentor, Mr. Miyagi.
In contrast to the novice Daniel, who is still grappling with the fundamentals of martial arts, Li has advanced far beyond those initial stages. Wang, who holds the distinction of being the first Asian-American lead in a “Karate Kid” film, emphasizes the elevated level of expertise required in this context by stating, “This is grad school.”
This metaphor not only highlights the complexity and depth of the training that Li has undergone but also underscores the significant evolution of the franchise, moving from a simple coming-of-age story to a narrative that delves into the intricacies of discipline, mastery, and cultural representation in martial arts.
The shift in focus from a young learner to a seasoned practitioner reflects a broader theme of growth and the pursuit of excellence, which resonates deeply within the storyline and its characters.
Jackie Chan’s ‘Karate Kid’ love goes back to the ’80s
Wang reminisces about the excitement surrounding his encounter with Chan, the legendary 71-year-old action star from Hong Kong, which began even before he arrived on set.
While filming in Montreal, Wang observed the reaction of the crew, composed largely of relaxed French Canadians, who were visibly astonished to learn that Chan was driving himself from the airport.
Approximately thirty minutes later, Chan arrived in a van, casually greeting everyone with a friendly, “What’s up?” Wang chuckles as he recalls the moment, highlighting the contrast between the crew’s initial anxiety and Chan’s laid-back demeanor. Shortly thereafter, they proceeded to film a fight scene together, marking a memorable collaboration between the two.
Chan expressed his appreciation for the 1984 film, noting that it significantly influenced his decision to participate in the original “Karate Kid” movie.
He believes that such films provide audiences with an opportunity to engage with karate and its cultural significance. Since meeting Ralph Macchio at the premiere of the 2010 remake, Chan has longed to collaborate with him.
He highlights that one of the most enjoyable aspects of working on “Legends” is the chance to train and challenge their co-star, Ben, together, which adds a layer of camaraderie and shared experience to their project.
In the process of filming those particular sequences, both Macchio and Chan engaged in a friendly rivalry, constantly striving to outdo one another, as noted by Entwistle.
This competitive spirit is intricately tied to the overarching theme of the film, which explores the age-old debate of kung fu versus karate, prompting viewers to consider which martial art reigns supreme.
This dynamic not only enhances the narrative but also serves as a clever, self-referential nod to the audience, highlighting the divide between the 2010 adaptation and the cherished original.
The interplay between the two actors encapsulates the essence of this rivalry, making it a compelling aspect of the film that resonates with fans of both versions.
Knight asserts that the 1984 film remains relevant and enjoyable for audiences of all ages, stating, “It’s a feel-good movie that anybody can relate to, whether you’re 13 or 30 or 100 years old.”
This timeless quality is further emphasized by Entwistle, who notes that there are scenes in “Legends” featuring Macchio in the iconic Miyagi house where he appears remarkably youthful, suggesting that he could easily be mistaken for a 17-year-old.
This enduring appeal and the ability to resonate with viewers across generations highlight the film’s lasting impact and the nostalgia it evokes.
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