Mon Jun 02 15:40:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
*Karate Kid: Legends*, starring Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan, disappoints despite high expectations set by its premise of uniting legendary martial arts families and linking to the *Cobra Kai* series. While the beginning and end offer glimpses of potential, the film largely fumbles its execution. Ben Wang’s character, Li, is a bright spot, potentially paving the way for future appearances. The film’s ending teases a future collaboration between Daniel and Johnny Lawrence.
**News Article:**
**’Karate Kid: Legends’ Fails to Live Up to Franchise Legacy, Despite Macchio and Chan’s Return**
*Karate Kid: Legends*, the highly anticipated installment in the *Karate Kid* franchise, has landed in theaters with a resounding thud, according to early reviews. The film, which promised to unite Ralph Macchio’s Daniel LaRusso and Jackie Chan’s Mr. Han in a story linked to the popular *Cobra Kai* series, fails to deliver on its initial promise.
The film’s premise, which connects the Miyagi and Han families through a retconned history rooted in Okinawa, Japan, initially sparks excitement. However, the narrative soon devolves, focusing on Mr. Han’s great nephew, Li (played by Ben Wang), training for a tournament with the help of both Mr. Han and Daniel.
While Wang’s character is a standout, and the film’s beginning sets high expectations, the plot struggles to maintain momentum. However, the ending offers a glimmer of hope.
Ultimately, *Karate Kid: Legends* misses the mark, failing to capture the magic of the original films or the compelling storylines of *Cobra Kai*. While the presence of Macchio and Chan might draw audiences, the film’s shortcomings are likely to leave fans disappointed.
First Piper 