Why Audiences Love Karate Kid: Legends Despite Critics’ Mixed Reviews

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Title Redefinition: “The Karate Kid: Legacies”

Despite mixed reviews from critics, The Karate Kid: Legacies has managed to win over audiences. Here are eight compelling reasons why viewers have enjoyed this latest installment in the Karate Kid series. This movie unites elements from the original films and the 2010 remake, along with a fresh cast of characters that belong to the Karate Kid universe. While both the original The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai have earned critical acclaim, The Karate Kid: Legacies has not received the same recognition from critics in 2025. However, the film’s impressive Rotten Tomatoes score suggests that audiences are captivated by it. Here’s a breakdown of why viewers find this movie so appealing.

Currently, according to Rotten Tomatoes, the critically-acclaimed rating for “Karate Kid: Legends” stands at 59%, placing it beneath the 2010 remake of “The Karate Kid,” the original 1984 film, and all seasons of “Cobra Kai.” However, a completely opposite trend is observed among audiences. On Rotten Tomatoes, “Karate Kid: Legends” boasts an impressive 91% audience score, ranking it above every other “The Karate Kid” movie and even surpassing the anticipated Season 6 of “Cobra Kai.” This significant gap in ratings has left many puzzled as to why some viewers admire “Karate Kid: Legends,” while others express disdain for it.

8. The Nostalgia Factor Of The Karate Kid

It Is A Karate Kid Love Letter

One primary reason why many viewers are drawn to “Karate Kid: Legends” lies in its strong connection to nostalgia. Although it presents a new tale, the production cleverly taps into the nostalgia associated with the initial films, as evidenced by its opening scene borrowed from the original series. Essentially, the film is rich with Easter eggs, references, and symbolism reminiscent of the first movies, making it a delight for fans who have followed the franchise over the years.

Although personal bias may make it challenging for some to evaluate a movie impartially, critics less influenced by nostalgia, particularly those indifferent towards the Karate Kid series, are less likely to be swayed. The Easter eggs and references might not hold as much significance for those who didn’t enjoy the film, contributing to the observed discrepancy in opinions.

7. It’s The First Karate Kid Movie In 15 Years (& The First Follow-Up After Cobra Kai Ended)

& The Last Film Was A Remake

One factor contributing to the success of Karate Kid: Legends among widespread audiences is that it represents the first new installment of the The Karate Kid franchise in 15 years. The previous movie, a 2010 remake, was controversial and served as a reboot for the series. Unlike the remake, Karate Kid: Legends follows on from the original The Karate Kid storyline, which ended years ago. This has provided an incentive for fans of the classic films to watch it in theaters, generating much anticipation.

Apart from that, the series Karate Kid: Legends debuted following the conclusion of Cobra Kai. Cobra Kai, you see, was the initial continuation of the original The Karate Kid narrative and it gained massive popularity. Over its six seasons, it consistently garnered praise from both critics and viewers, leaving many eager for a fresh installment in the The Karate Kid franchise. The arrival of Karate Kid: Legends can be attributed to this streaming success, as it likely wouldn’t have been produced without the popularity of Cobra Kai.

6. The Fight Scenes & Choreography Were Unanimous Among Critics & Audiences

It Had More Action Than Ever Before

One aspect universally admired in the movie “Karate Kid: Legends” by both viewers and critics was its exceptional fight sequences. The film is packed with breathtaking stunts and combat scenes, setting it apart from previous movies due to its heavy emphasis on action. Unlike other films in the series, protagonist Li Fong possesses fighting skills at the movie’s outset, eliminating the need for a prolonged training period before the action begins. Furthermore, the contrasting styles of Mr. Han and Daniel LaRusso add an extra layer of excitement to the fights, as the martial arts depicted extend beyond just karate.

5. The Performance From Ben Wang

He Shines Among Big Stars

When it comes to Li Fong, it’s worth noting that Ben Wang’s portrayal as the lead character in “Karate Kid: Legends” has received a lot of positive feedback. Wang truly excels in his role, delivering an abundance of enthusiasm and showcasing remarkable stunt work. Despite having less screen time compared to Ralph Macchio in the original trilogy, Li Fong has emerged as a protagonist that fans are eager to see more of. It’s noteworthy that Ben Wang held his own against the storied legacies of both Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan within “The Karate Kid” franchise.

4. The Appeal Of Returning Cast Like Jackie Chan & Ralph Macchio

Mr. Han & Daniel LaRusso Make Their Returns

In essence, the major appeal of Karate Kid: Legends was not just Ben Wang as the main character, but rather the reappearance of Jackie Chan’s Mr. Han and Ralph Macchio’s Daniel LaRusso. These characters from the 2010 remake and the original 1984 film respectively had never been on screen together before, making their return a significant event, especially since it had been quite some time since either character graced the big screen. The comeback of these iconic characters might be why the movie was called Karate Kid: Legends, and most fans were happy to see them back.

The main complaint about these characters is that they didn’t have enough screen time in the movie. Mr. Han, for instance, is initially introduced at the start of Karate Kid: Legends, but then he’s barely seen until later in the film. Similarly, Daniel LaRusso doesn’t show up until halfway through, and his role turns out to be smaller than what was suggested by the promotional materials. Although it’s understandable that the new lead and Mr. Han needed more attention given Ralph Macchio’s extensive screen time in Cobra Kai, it would have been enjoyable to see Daniel LaRusso get more of a leading role.

3. Karate Kid: Legends Was Uniquely Funny

The Whole Film Was A Comedy

A standout feature that makes “Karate Kid: Legends” particularly appealing is its unique sense of humor, which sets it apart from other Karate Kid movies. Unlike previous films in the series that occasionally provided comic relief, this one can genuinely be classified as a comedic film. The 2010 remake may hold the title for the most comical, but much of its humor stems from Jaden Smith’s character. In contrast, “everyone in Karate Kid: Legends brings the laughs“. All characters contribute to the film’s jokes and comedic scenes, making it a more light-hearted experience than some of its predecessors.

2. The Short Runtime Makes It Bite-Sized Fun

It Is The Shortest Karate Kid Movie

A notable feature of Karate Kid: Legends is its brevity. With a duration of just 94 minutes, it’s the shortest movie in the Karate Kid series. Compared to this, The Next Karate Kid lasts for 107 minutes, making it 13 minutes longer than the 2025 remake. Interestingly, it’s significantly shorter than the original film, which runs for 127 minutes, and the 2010 remake, which clocks in at 140 minutes.

In contrast to those who enjoy extended films, The Karate Kid: Legends doesn’t have to be a grand production. Given that each Karate Kid movie has a relatively modest narrative scope, it’s fitting that this installment be told within a manageable 90 minutes. For many viewers, Karate Kid: Legends serves as an enjoyable, brief trip to the cinema rather than a day-long affair.

1. Karate Kid: Legends Unites The Three Branches Of The Karate Kid

The Originals, The Remake, & Cobra Kai

What truly sets apart “Karate Kid: Legends” is its ability to merge the three distinct storylines of “The Karate Kid”. Unlike a simple continuation of the initial series, this 2025 film also encompasses the realm of the 2010 remake, a world previously unrelated to the original movies. By establishing a bond between Daniel LaRusso (original character) and Mr. Han (remake character), “Karate Kid: Legends” expands the universe of “The Karate Kid”, making it appear more comprehensive and integrated.

In addition, “Karate Kid: Legends” blends the narrative of “Cobra Kai” with these films. Although “Karate Kid: Legends” isn’t exactly a continuation of the “Cobra Kai” series, it is evident that the storyline aligns with the movie’s canon. The depiction of Daniel LaRusso in this film is the one who has experienced the events of “Cobra Kai”. Fans who have followed the franchise closely will appreciate “Karate Kid: Legends”, as it serves as a heartfelt tribute to every aspect of “The Karate Kid” series.

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2025-06-03 20:28