Review Of The Karate Kid At Cineworld Nottingham

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Kam Stephens went to see The Karate Kid at Cineworld Nottingham.

The original version of ‘The Karate Kid’ movie which came out in 1984 was hugely popular, earning Pat Morita an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Mr Miyagi. However, it spawned a number of sequels that gradually tarnished the reputation of the franchise, arguably condemning it to the junkpile of 80s kitch nostaligia. Arguably, the ‘Karate Kid’ films are respected neither as dramatic stories or martial arts genre film.

At its heart, the original film followed a classic style of story that has been told particularly in Chinese martial arts films since they became popular in the 1970s.. The tale of a downtrodden person or persons, who are then aided by the most unlikely of Masters, whose teaching method is somewhat unorthodox is the foundation of many early classics. Usually this master took the guise of a begger, often played by Yuen Siu Tien, with Jackie Chan taking the role of the young protégé as for example in the original ‘Drunken Master’’.

The new Karate Kid follows the same principles, and shares many things with the 1984 original, however there are some major differences too. This time we are in China rather than America. Although the original title of Karate Kid remains, Mr Miyagi and Japanese martial arts are replaced by Mr Han, played by Jackie Chan and our hero is instead learning Chinese Kung Fu . As a result, the originals rather ropey martial arts are replaced by the top notch choreography that one would expect with Jackie Chan and his team involved.

Performances by Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan are, perhaps surprisingly believable and moving. The symbiotic relationship that develops between Mr Han and Dre Parker provides heart of the film. The bond that is formed between them is developed through verbal exchanges that are both charming and amusing and montages of Dre’s training which are imaginative and entertaining

Recently we have seen Jackie Chan’s role come full circle in Martial Arts films, moving from the charismatic hero to the unlikely master as in 2008’s ‘Forbidden Kingdom’. This is also the case in Karate Kid, however he also demonstrates a serious and emotional side, revealing that he is not just a martial artist and comedian but also a truly talented character actor. (For more evidence of this I suggest you go out and buy ‘Shinjuku Incident’.

Jaden Smith has all the charisma and screen presence that one would expect of Will Smith’s son. He is convincing as the 12 year old who feels totally lost and alone, and latches on to the father figure that Mr Han provides. It is also clear that the time he has spent preparing physically for the role under the tutelage of Jackie Chan and his stunt team has revealed the makings of a very talented martial artist.

‘Wax on, wax off’ has become an iconic phrase when we think of martial arts flicks. but its not present here in the remake. There is a revamped version in a similar vein, however it is not as contrived as it first may seem. It would be difficult for the most cynical of watchers not to grin with delight when the phoney apparatus are dispensed with and the true lessons of Dre’s repetitive task are revealed

Overall The Karate Kid is great family entertainment. If one were to level a criticism it might be that whilst the martial arts on show are thrilling and spectacular at times, they are also quite brutal, as they were in the 1984 version. Scenes where little Dre takes a beating from local bullies are difficult watching at times (remember these are 12 year olds). They almost feel too violent for a PG rated movie. It is also slightly disturbing just how vile the evil master of the ‘Fighting Dragons’ (Aka Cobra Kai) is, someone really ought to call the authorities! It is frustrating that the fiend never gets his come-uppance, most likely so that he can lead more young minds astray and seek further dastardly revenge on Dre and Mr Han in what will be a very welcome sequel.

K & R Stephens

The Karate Kid is now showing at cinemas across Nottingham