When we hear the name Kung Fu or martial arts, we immediately remember the legend, Jackie Chan. Since he entered showbiz, he has created a trademark for martial arts. There are other talented Kung Fu players in the movie industry, but Jackie Chan resides close to our hearts because of his humorous actions in the films. Jackie’s films that communicate profound emotional themes to the audience are a reflection of quality craftsmanship.
This definitely has etched his name in people’s minds. Throughout his film career, he has done numerous films where he has portrayed his kung fu skills, has broken bones, and been hospitalised due to severe injury during shooting. In this world, his name roars– as a legend forged in motion, where every leap tells a story, and every bruise builds a legacy.
As the world is inspired by Kung Fu, even Hollywood has drawn inspiration from this ancient Chinese martial art, culminating in many blockbuster films. In 1984, the director Robert Mark Kamen crafted an original Karate Kid movie, which led to further franchises of the movie–The Karate Kid Part II in 1986, The Karate Kid Part III in 1989, The Next Karate Kid in 1994, and ultimately a remake of this similar plot by retaining the original name was released in 2010, which starred Jackie Chan, Jaden Smith, and Taraji P. Henson in lead roles for the first time in the franchise. And now, due to its popularity, directors have come up with yet another Kung Fu film by blending emotions, martial arts skills, love, and family drama.
Original Plot
When the coming-of-age film, Karate Kid, was released in the 80s, people were mesmerised by the storyline, action sequences, and heartfelt mentorship between Mr. Miyagi and Daniel, which gave the film both emotional depth and timeless appeal. The film begins with Daniel, a soft-spoken boy, moving to LA with his mom in hopes of a fresh start. However, adjusting to his new life proves difficult as he quickly finds himself the target of bullying by a group of karate-trained students from the Cobra Kai dojo.
Hence, these situations bring Daniel emotionally and mentally down; thereupon approaches Mr Miyagi for enlightenment and support. And now Mr Miyagi, a handyman in the apartment where Daniel stays, helps him to overcome his fears and suggests the fighting can be ended throught a tournament. This training opens up new doors for Daniel by providing discipline, balance, and respect towards life and helping him grow not only as a fighter but also as a person.
Remade Plot
Well, the remade plot also had the same story, only with different actors. Jackie Chan steps in as Mr Miyagi’s role, and Jaden Smith steps in as Daniel’s role. Jaden travelling to the new place, falling in love with the girl and becoming subject to bullying–all mirror the journey of the original Karate Kid, while bringing a fresh cultural perspective and emotional depth to the story. Meanwhile, Jackie Chan brought his signature stunts and martial arts expertise to the role, significantly enhancing the film’s action and realism.
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New Legend: Action Begins
To add another movie to the franchise, the director Jonathan Entwistle has collaborated with new actors, while Jackie reprised his role as Mr Han. Since the release of the trailer, this film has created a buzz in town for its artistic fights, aesthetically rich background, and character-driven content. We can see that Li Fong, played by Ben Wang, arrives to New York to start a new life, but eventually his fate drives him into entering a tournament mentored by Mr Han to defend himself against his rivals, while navigating the love life.
Moreover, the addition of William Zabka (Johnny Lawrence), an actor from the previous franchise, has brought a sense of nostalgia and depth to the story, allowing fans to explore his character from a more mature and nuanced perspective.
In India, Karate Kid: Legends is yet to be released on May 30, 2025, and fans can’t wait longer to see their action star, Jackie Chan, on the big canvas.
Written By: Tejaswini Prasad