Sony Pictures
The upcoming “Karate Kid: Legends” promises to merge the narratives of all the “Karate Kid” franchise’s movies and TV shows. Renowned characters Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) and Mr. Han (Jackie Chan) join forces to bridge the gap between the original “Karate Kid” films and the 2010 movie reboot. The film, set after “Cobra Kai,” will focus on these experienced senseis imparting their knowledge to a new student, while rejoicing over the absence of a villain who has been a constant thorn in LaRusso’s side since the 1980s.
During an interaction on “Kyle Meredith With…,” Martin Kove, known for his character John Kreese, expressed his views on the possibility of reprising his role in the forthcoming “Karate Kid” movie. The seasoned actor from the original “Karate Kid” trilogy and “Cobra Kai” disclosed that he wasn’t invited to participate in the film, but holds no resentment towards the film’s creators and stars. In his words:
“Everything’s pretty hush-hush. I am yet to discuss it with Ralph; I will […] Ralph took about 10 days off, did his part, and that was that. None of us from ‘Cobra Kai’ were asked to participate. When I’m not invited, I’m fine, as I understand why: they’re inviting potential chaos.”
It’s worth noting that “Karate Kid: Legends” is set post “Cobra Kai,” which could imply that Kreese might be deceased or imprisoned by the time the movie commences. The film seems to be more focused on propelling the “Karate Kid” franchise into the future, featuring new characters in the spotlight.
Anticipating Karate Kid: Legends
Netflix
“Karate Kid: Legends” will have Mr. Han partnering with Daniel LaRusso to mentor kung-fu and karate enthusiast Li Fong (Ben Wang) as he adjusts to life in America. After facing a tragedy in Beijing, the teenager moves to New York and soon finds himself at odds with some of his classmates, not surprisingly leading to clashes with some of New York’s toughest kids.
The storyline mirrors the original “Karate Kid” movie, featuring LaRusso dealing with bullies after his move from New Jersey to California. Both movies narrate tales of outsiders dealing with adversity as they navigate unfamiliar environments. It’s therefore understandable why Daniel, despite his vow to retire from karate after the Sekai Taikai tournament in “Cobra Kai” season 6, agrees to take on another student.
Although “Karate Kid: Legends” is primarily forward-looking, it doesn’t rule out the possibility of revisiting the past. “Cobra Kai” has brilliantly paved the way for a prequel series about Mr. Miyagi’s early life, and the show’s creators have expressed their interest in creating spin-offs within this universe. There might even be a possibility of including John Kreese in one of those.
“Cobra Kai” season 6 part 3 is set to premiere on Netflix on February 13, 2025, while “Karate Kid: Legends” is scheduled to hit the theaters on May 30, 2025.
FAQs
Q: When is “Karate Kid: Legends” releasing?
A: “Karate Kid: Legends” is set to release on May 30, 2025.
Q: Will Martin Kove reprise his role as John Kreese in “Karate Kid: Legends”?
A: No, Martin Kove has confirmed that he has not been invited to reprise his role as John Kreese in the movie.
Q: What is the plot of “Karate Kid: Legends”?
A: The movie will focus on Daniel LaRusso and Mr. Han guiding a new student, Li Fong, who moves to New York from Beijing and faces challenges in adjusting to his new surroundings.
Q: Is “Karate Kid: Legends” a continuation of “Cobra Kai”?
A: Yes, the events in “Karate Kid: Legends” take place after “Cobra Kai”.
Credit: www.slashfilm.com
