It was good to see Ralph Macchio back in the franchise, especially in his role helping someone fulfill a destiny. Karate Kid: Legends is a continuation that should have happened years ago. Directed by Jonathan Entwistle, he brings the dynamic of what shapes a team and provides mentorship to a new level in Karate Kid: Legends. After the success of Cobra Kai, the franchise focused on teamwork in a more realistic way this time around.

The most essential remaining aspect from The Karate Kid(1984) is consistency as taught by Mr. Miyagi. I fondly remember the late Pat Morita’s famous lines, “Wax on, right hand. Wax off, left hand. Wax on, wax off. Breath in through nose, out of the mouth.”  Sadly, he passed away in 2011. The legacy of patience as a virtue stands the test of time in Karate Kid: Legends. Daniel LaRusso (Macchio) is one of the individuals promoting success now along with Mr. Han (Jackie Chan). Karate Kid: Legends is a new universe with potential.

The new young warrior is Li Fong (Ben Wang). He moves from China to New York. His mom, Dr. Fong (Ming-Na Wen), hopes Li can dismiss his fighting as they adapt to their new lives in the USA, but the combat finds Li. Some positives do happen for Lias he forms a friendship with Mia (Sadie Stanley) who works at a pizza parlor with her father Victor (Joshua Jackson). As Li navigates new routes in New York, he realizes the chance to fight is just around the corner. His mentor is Mr. Han and that is who he learns most of his motives from. Karate Kid: Legends is filled with interpersonal dynamics that lead to a bond that is stronger than I expected.

Before continuing into details about the dynamics, I want to touch upon the fact that the film’s writing may feel like it is trying to be a blockbuster. Unfortunately, I found it somewhat lacking especially when it came to the pacing of the franchise’sbiggest alumni…Daniel LaRusso. Macchio is the gem of the franchise. He is a mentor, learner, and someone reevaluating his own combat. Kung-fu and karate have separate terminology, but they find common ground in their juxtaposition. When Li is about to enter a competition, he plans to go up against a bully/jock by the name of Conor (Aramis Knight). With much uncertainty given the various relationships, Li finds himself in the middle—trying to settle the conflict by competition. I believe this is where Karate Kid: Legends highlights the mastery of martial arts and persistence in a dazzling way.

There is no easy way out for Li. The world of New York is his playground, and he uses the streets and subways as his training ground for becoming a winner. The encouragement of champions is presented in a captivating way. Karate Kid: Legends is not mesmerizing, but the message it sends to never give up is a knockout. Three out of four stars for Karate Kid: Legends.