The film *Karate Kid: Legends* will be a nostalgic version of martial arts movies that incorporates all the classic tropes of endurance, tutor-tutee relationships, and inner realization. The movie takes place around the transfer of kung fu prodigy Li Fong in New York City and reflects the common theme of dealing with new settings, challenging not only themselves but also the external world. The universal aspect of the fundamental premise of the story, an underdog against a tough opponent, cuts through on the barometric level of holds true that a person should be strong not because they are tough but dependable/reliable and wise leaders/mentors are ever present.
The acting, particularly of Ben Wang, as Li Fong, is very honest and charismatic to watch. Jackie Chan, who plays Mr. Han, is very sage-like and fatherly making him the perfect teacher who would not focus on fighting so much as learning to be a good person. The nostalgic return of Ralph Macchio as Daniel LaRusso gives a sense of authenticity and continuity to the audience of the old time television series. This chemistry is part of these characters and drives the story, the training and development they all undergo is believable and inspirational. The mood of the film is one of martial arts action balanced with avenues of heart-felt mentoring, and it is much more about personal growth than it is about a spectacle.
On the visual end, the film features highly active martial arts that emphasize the kung fu and karate arts effortlessly incorporated into each other to signify unity and flexibility. The setting of the city of New York provides color and action to a backdrop of ancient martial arts cast against urban realities. The music supplements the movement, intensifying scenes of suspense and victory. It runs through common plot points, but its theme of mentorship and self-confidence makes it a little superior to standard sports movies. After all, in the end, *Karate Kid: Legends* managed to make me feel good – to remember that the key to dealing with hardship lies in perseverance, humiliation, and instructive support.
