Karate Kid Legends (12A) |Close-Up Film Review

“Coat on, coat off.” That line echoed in my head as I left the Odeon Leicester Square screening. A modern mantra. A subtle callback. 

Karate Kid Legends is exactly what I hoped for—a smart, stylish evolution of a franchise that shaped my childhood and redefined itself through Cobra Kai.   As someone who rewound The Karate Kid VHS until the tape gave out and then binged Cobra Kai through lockdown like it was emotional therapy, I came into this film with high hopes and a full heart.  And I left just the same.

We follow Li Fong (Ben Wang), a scrappy yet sharp New York teen who finds himself thrust into a hidden martial arts war tied to his family’s past. As he learns more about his roots and the danger surrounding him, he’s taken under the wings of two returning legends: Jackie Chan’s soulful, reserved Mr. Han, and Ralph Macchio’s ever-earnest Daniel LaRusso.

The story moves fast but with purpose. It spans cultures, philosophies, and generations. Li is caught between honour and action, discipline and instinct—and that internal tension gives the film its emotional weight.

Ben Wang? A STAR. He brings vulnerability, charisma, and that spark you just can’t fake. When he fights, you feel it. When he doubts, you believe it. When he rises, you cheer.  While Chan and Macchio aren’t just cameos—they’re the soul of the film. Watching their dynamic evolve from distant allies to kindred spirits is a beautiful arc.

Some of the side characters could’ve been fleshed out more, and one or two scenes felt a touch rushed. But those are minor compared to the emotional and visual power this movie brings.   This is how you pass the torch. With fire, respect, and open arms.

Karate Kid Legends kicked its way into my heart—and I’ll happily bow to that.