Movies

Karate Kid: Legends Will Bring Chinese Action Style and Epic Fight Scenes

BBG News

Actor Ben Wang from the “Karate Kid: Legends” series has shared that the stunt work in the upcoming film will outshine anything that’s come before. This new installment of the martial arts franchise is set for release in US cinemas on May 30, bridging the storyline between the original “Karate Kid” movies and the 2010 reboot starring Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith. In this sequel, Jackie Chan reprises his role as Kung Fu master Mr. Han, while Ralph Macchio returns as Daniel LaRusso, with both characters serving as mentors to Ben Wang’s Li Fong.

In an interview with Empire prior to the US release of “Karate Kid: Legends”, Wang shared insights on how this new film sets itself apart from previous franchise installments. He emphasized that the Chinese stunt team behind the movie’s fight choreography is skilled in creating action sequences reminiscent of Hong Kong and Chinese cinema, thus distinguishing the action scenes from the Western-style action featured in earlier films. Here are his remarks:

I realized that the action would be distinct from typical Karate Kid films, as well as most Western action movies, given it’s a Chinese stunt team who specialize in creating action scenes in the Hong Kong style of cinema, which I grew up watching. Consequently, I yearned to perform those stunts myself – to attach a wire around my waist and be pulled through a wall. And that’s exactly what I did! It was an incredible experience!

Additionally, Wang mentioned that although he looked forward to joining the film’s action scenes, the idea of facing off against Chan after just over a month and a half of training was incredibly intimidating to him. He even humorously admitted that he almost became nervous enough to wet himself. Here are his concluding remarks:

It’s quite understandable if one would be extremely nervous under the circumstances. After all, fighting Jackie Chan, who has been in the martial arts scene for over a month and a half, could undoubtedly make anyone feel apprehensive. However, it’s natural to experience such feelings.

What Ben Wang’s Comments Mean For Karate Kid: Legends

It Is Still Important That The Fight Scenes Do Not Overpower The Story

As a passionate film enthusiast, I find myself reflecting on the unique challenge that lies ahead for the newest addition to the Karate Kid franchise. Unlike the 2010 reboot, which stood alone at its release, this new entry steps into the limelight after the phenomenal success of Netflix’s Cobra Kai. With the sequel series having left such an indelible impact on viewers and reigniting our collective nostalgia for all things Karate Kid, Karate Kid: Legends will need to put in extra effort to sustain the goodwill and charm that Cobra Kai has so effectively cultivated.

Wang’s statement about the action sequences of the upcoming movie exceeding anything seen before is promising, but it’s crucial that this sequel doesn’t deviate too extensively from the familiar themes and conventions of the previous films. The popularity of Cobra Kai has stemmed more from its loyalty to the franchise’s history and characters rather than just its fight scenes. In essence, the new movie’s stunts will be just one aspect contributing to whether the series can make a successful comeback on the big screen.

Our Take On Karate Kid: Legends’ Use of Chinese-Inspired Stunt Work

The Franchise Has Always Been About Its Characters’ Journeys Rather Than Martial Arts

In the Karate Kid series, martial arts have traditionally served as a means to develop the narrative and characters rather than primarily focusing on action-packed fight scenes. As Western audiences grow more familiar with diverse cinematic influences and styles of action, the upcoming Karate Kid: Legends could potentially gain from more dynamic fight sequences. However, the essence of the franchise lies in the personal journeys of its characters, as demonstrated by Cobra Kai.

Read More

2025-05-18 04:17

Previous post ETC PREDICTION. ETC cryptocurrency
Next post Evelyn Ellis Dazzles at Cannes Amid Wardrobe Risk and Star-Studded Party