This weekend’s premiere of Karate Kid: Legends has garnered its initial reviews, and unfortunately, they’ve been rather critical. The Rotten Tomatoes score has been revealed, indicating a less positive reception overall.
Based on 44 reviews so far, the Rotten Tomatoes rating for “Karate Kid: Legends” stands at a “Rotten” 55%. The fan score is set to be revealed when the movie is fully released, which will be this weekend.
Franchise Scores: Only Two Fresh Films and No Cobra Kai Involvement
From the five films within this series, only two have been positively received according to Rotten Tomatoes’ standards. The original Karate Kid from 1984 boasts an impressive 81% rating, and the 2010 film featuring Jackie Chan follows closely with a 67%. Unfortunately, the quality seems to decline significantly afterward. The Karate Kid Part II (1986) received a disappointing 48%, while The Karate Kid Part III fared even worse at 15%. The lowest score of all goes to The Next Karate Kid with a mere 7%.
Speaking as a movie enthusiast here, I highly recommend giving “Cobra Kai” a watch. This series has garnered an impressive 94% approval from critics and a strong 90% rating from fans, which speaks volumes about its quality. Interestingly, the creative minds behind “Cobra Kai” were not involved in “Karate Kid: Legends”. So, while it’s a continuation of the beloved Karate Kid saga, it offers a fresh and unique take on the story we all know and love.
What do the reviews say?
The negative
Critics have expressed disappointment with Karate Kid: Legends, finding it bogged down by tired tropes, unengaging narrative, and shallow emotional development. Many felt the film relied too heavily on nostalgia without introducing anything fresh or innovative. One critic in particular criticized its lack of originality compared to the first film, while others complained about Ralph Macchio’s delayed appearance and a hurried plot that skips over crucial scenes.
Many reviewers commented that the film felt like a manufactured studio product, failing to capture the essence and emotional impact of the original. They noted the script was thin and formulaic, underutilizing the talents of its cast. Moreover, some pointed out that the movie attempted to balance two storylines but failed to make them cohesive, resulting in a disjointed and unfocused viewing experience for many critics. In their opinion, Legends is a lackluster addition to the series, falling short when compared to both the original and Cobra Kai.
“has none of the first movie’s originality” – Entertainment Weekly
For approximately 55 minutes, Ralph Macchio is absent from the movie, causing it to quickly move through scenes that enthusiasts had been eagerly anticipating, as well as other events.
Inconsistency appears to be a pattern with Sony, as their offerings often seem designed to stir nostalgia, yet fail to meet the anticipated quality. Regrettably, it’s not the pleasant surprise you might hope for.
The positive
The film Karate Kid: Legends is lauded by many for its captivating allure, stellar cast, and nostalgic charm. Critics have particularly applauded Ben Wang’s exceptional performance and charming demeanor, with several acknowledging the film’s impressive fight sequences and poignant moments that resonate with the original. One reviewer found the dual-story structure to be “satisfyingly standard,” while another appreciated the familiar emotional journey of a martial arts hero. Critics noted the movie’s homage to 1980s cinema and its successful blend of past and present. A reviewer also described it as heartwarming and fun, making it suitable for family viewing, and another commended its simple, pure atmosphere. Although there are flaws, many agree that it provides enough entertainment, especially for younger audiences and longtime fans who appreciate its retro style.
“Both of the films embedded in ‘Karate Kid: Legends’ are standardly satisfying.” – Slashfilm
Despite the identical emotional elements between Legends and its predecessor, it’s incredibly fulfilling to watch either film and witness the protagonist grow into a skilled martial artist. (The Mary Sue)
Luckily, the upcoming 2025 installment of the series promises to be equally entertaining, skillfully juggling elements from the past and the present. – YourFriendlyWriter
Release info
The movie titled “Karate Kid: Legends” will be available for early previews on Thursday, followed by its official release on Friday, May 30th. The film is directed by Jonathan Entwistle.
Who stars?
As a film enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that this movie boasts an impressive cast featuring Jackie Chan, Ralph Macchio, Ben Wang, Joshua Jackson, Sadie Stanley, and the remarkable Ming-Na Wen.
Official plot:
Karate Kid: Legends brings together iconic martial arts masters from a cherished movie franchise for a fresh, action-packed tale brimming with emotion. When gifted kung fu practitioner Li Fong (Ben Wang) and his mother move to New York City to attend an elite school, he finds comfort in a new friendship with a fellow student and her father. However, this tranquility is soon shattered when he catches the eye of a formidable local karate champion. Seeking self-defense, Li sets out on a quest to compete in the ultimate karate tournament. Under the guidance of his kung fu mentor, Mr. Han (Jackie Chan), and the venerable Karate Kid, Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio), Li combines their distinct martial arts techniques to prepare for an extraordinary showdown in the world of martial arts.
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2025-05-28 23:32