When a thin, wiry kid from New Jersey made his way to California with his mom, few could have predicted it would spark a franchise that’s still thriving four decades later. Yet, that’s the legacy of The Karate Kid, the iconic 1984 film featuring Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita. This beloved tale of perseverance led to two sequels in quick succession, with a third film appearing five years afterward. After a long hiatus, the franchise was rejuvenated in 2010 when Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith introduced a fresh take starring Jaden Smith alongside Jackie Chan as the mentor.
The 2010 remake became the franchise’s biggest success, yet fans had another long wait before the arrival of Cobra Kai, a Netflix series that revitalized the original story in an innovative format. It quickly became a cultural phenomenon, leading to a 2022 announcement from Sony Pictures that The Karate Kid would return to theaters—this time including both Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio.
With Karate Kid: Legends now in theaters, it aims to merge the beloved elements from all previous iterations of The Karate Kid. But does it live up to the legacy? Here’s how we rank the films in the franchise:
6. The Next Karate Kid (1994)
Despite your expectations, The Next Karate Kid is a significant letdown. Hilary Swank stars as a high school student under Mr. Miyagi’s guidance, but the story suffers from an awkward dynamic that never quite feels genuine. The villains lack any compelling motivation, making this film a blemish on the franchise that’s hard to overlook.
5. Karate Kid: Legends (2025)
Unfortunately, Karate Kid: Legends doesn’t quite hit the mark. While it contains moments of promise, it fundamentally misinterprets the essence of what makes The Karate Kid special. A franchise built on themes of friendship, mentorship, and underdog triumphs takes a backseat to flashy interactions and fight scenes, making it feel more like a missed opportunity than a meaningful addition.
4. The Karate Kid Part III (1989)
A gem for die-hard fans, Part III is a fun, albeit flawed, sequel. Set just one year after the first film, it features John Kreese, now disgraced, seeking revenge with the help of the wealthy Terry Silver. While it lacks the cohesion of its predecessors, its over-the-top charm captures the spirit of the franchise, making it enjoyable for devoted followers.
3. The Karate Kid (2010)
On first watch, I was critical of the 2010 remake. However, during a recent rewatch, I found it to be a surprisingly faithful adaptation of the original. With Jaden Smith and Taraji P. Henson taking on the roles of the son and mother, the story shifts but retains much of its heart. It flies by, proving the narrative at its core remains timeless and engaging.
2. The Karate Kid Part II (1986)
It’s hard not to compare The Karate Kid Part II to its predecessor, which works against it. However, this sequel brings a new setting as Mr. Miyagi and Daniel go to Okinawa, introducing a deeper conflict rooted in local traditions. With compelling new characters and stakes that elevate the story, it’s a worthy continuation filled with nostalgic charm.
1. The Karate Kid (1984)
There’s no question that the original The Karate Kid reigns supreme in this lineup. A blend of humor, emotion, and thrilling moments, it charts Daniel LaRusso’s transformative journey led by the unforgettable Mr. Miyagi, played masterfully by Pat Morita. The film also features a stellar supporting cast, including Elizabeth Shue and William Zabka, making it one of the most quotable and beloved films of its era.
Considering the impact of the franchise, can Cobra Kai be included in this ranking? While it’s technically not a film, this six-season series offers a rich take on the original story, diving into characters and themes in ways the movies only scratch the surface. It’s a deep exploration, enriching the overall legacy of The Karate Kid.
Do you want to revisit your favorite Karate Kid moments or discover new insights? Explore more content at Moyens I/O to dive deeper into the world of your favorite movies and shows.
Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.