Sony Pictures Tuesday released the official trailer for Karate Kid: Legends, the latest instalment in the beloved martial arts franchise. The film is set to arrive in theatres on May 30, bringing together iconic stars and a new generation of talent.
Ralph Macchio returns as Daniel LaRusso, the underdog-turned-champion who captured audiences’ hearts in the original 1984 Karate Kid. He will be joined by martial arts legend Jackie Chan, reprising his role as Mr. Han from the 2010 remake. Ben Wang joins the cast as Li Fong, a kung fu prodigy starting a new life in New York City under the mentorship of both Daniel and Mr. Han.
The cast also includes Ming-Na Wen as Li Fong’s devoted mother, along with Joshua Jackson and Sadie Stanley.
Jonathan Entwistle, known for his work on Netflix's I Am Not Okay With This, is directing the film from a screenplay by Rob Lieber, while Karen Rosenfelt serves as the producer.
The Karate Kid franchise began in 1984, with Ralph Macchio portraying Daniel LaRusso, a teenager learning karate from the wise and humble Mr. Miyagi (the late Pat Morita). The original film became a cultural phenomenon, spawning two direct sequels, a spin-off starring Hilary Swank, and a 2010 remake featuring Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan.
Now, Karate Kid: Legends aims to bridge the gap between the franchise’s past and present. The story follows Li Fong, a kung fu prodigy uprooted from Beijing after a family tragedy and thrust into an unfamiliar life in New York City. Struggling to fit in and reluctant to embrace his martial arts background, Li finds himself drawn back into the world of combat when a new friend needs his help.
With trouble brewing, Mr. Han and Daniel join forces to train Li, blending their distinct fighting styles into a groundbreaking new approach. The ultimate test comes as Li enters a high-stakes karate competition, where he must prove that strength, resilience, and heart can overcome any obstacle.