Karate Kid Trilogy Thread (1984-89)

To save derailing other threads about these 80's classics (Well, at least in the case of the first two). A thread to discuss the original three Ralph Machio films.

The Karate Kid (1984) 10/10

The first is a very relatable movie for me because some of the things Daniel went through mirror some of the things I went through at school. The chemistry between Macchio and Morita makes the movie the classic it is. In my opinion the film is the definitive 80's teen movie with plenty of great pop tunes, romance and the inspirational plot of a boy finding himself thanks to his undying perseverance. I could watch it every week and still not get tired of it.

Can you imagine having Elisabeth Shue in your corner during a tournament? What a dream!



The Karate Kid Part II (1986) 7.5/10

The second does something totally different and instead focuses on honour, death and true love. Daniel faces his toughest challenge of the series as he takes on a fighter who is prepared to kill or be killed for the sake of preserving his honour. The cinematography is truly striking and the set pieces such as the storm and final fight are the most exciting moments in the entire trilogy. I used to prefer III to this movie, but it's fairly obvious to me now that this one is much better. Glory of Love is the ultimate love song:





The Karate Kid Part III (1989) 5.5/10

I've discussed at length on another thread the illogical plot and the unforgivable character assassination of Daniel Larusso. just the idea of a billionaire using all his power to take down a punk kid to please his friend is arguably the most ridiculous story in the history of cinema. There doesn't seem to be as much humour (not intentional, anyway) in this one either which makes it a bit of a depressing slog at times. Still, Jessica is a cutie and Bill Conti delivers the good with one of his best ever scores. Terry Silver is a blast with his demented laugh and shit eating grin and provides a mild relief from the persistent bleak tone. This scene is also one of the best in the trilogy:

I met the awesome William Zabka last year in London. I was also going to meet Martin Kove but sadly he cancelled.

Pepsi Maxil wrote:I met the awesome William Zabka last year in London. I was also going to meet Martin Kove but sadly he cancelled.

Cool. Did you get one of those photoshoots with him by any chance?

Indrid Mercury wrote:

Pepsi Maxil wrote:I met the awesome William Zabka last year in London. I was also going to meet Martin Kove but sadly he cancelled.

Cool. Did you get one of those photoshoots with him by any chance?

Sadly not. I didn't have enough for both so I opted for an autograph instead. I shook his hand and told him how great I thought the Cobra Kai show was. I'm really hoping Ralph or Elisabeth (who is rumoured to return in the third season of Cobra Kai) attend one of these years. I'd definitely like to have a photo with them both.

I'm going to bump my rating for Part III up to a 6/10. Robyn Lively makes me so bloody horny, man. Jessica > Kumiko.

I always quite liked the first one . I really wanted Daniel to beat the shit out of Johny but even more so Miwagi to knock seven bells out of Kreese.

I dont think i have seen 2 or 3.

While not as enjoyable, I quite liked the Jaden Smith remake although Chan as the Miwagi type character didn't quite work for me. That role is Pat Morita's for all eternity imho. Come to think of it Ralphy made a more likeable Daniel / Dre Parker aswell.

The best film after the original is The Next Karate Kid. Most people have never seen it and the ones that have like to piss all over it from the comfort of their rickety hatewagon. Be sure not to fall off and hit your head on the pavement, you tasteless fucks. Hilary's footwork is incredible.

I've never seen any of them, shockingly.

iank wrote:I've never seen any of them, shockingly.

Are you tempted now?

I may pick up a Blu of the original sometime, give it a go. There's still so much I want to get, though, and so little money...

Yolu could probably get them quite cheap at a CEX store where they sell the four film boxset for about £3.00 (DVD).

Just got the Blu for less than $10 off eBay. Better be good now.

iank wrote:Just got the Blu for less than $10 off eBay. Better be good now.

Of course it is. Elisabeth Shue is in it

Seriously, this is my favourite movie. No other movie has inspired me as much as the original Karate Kid.

To be fair, I can never have too many 80s movies.

The Cobra Kai web series is a lot better than the sequels and arguably on the same level as the original film. The show is the only shining light in a very dark period of entertainment. I'd love to be like Johnny Lawrence when I grow up. I think it's time the bully magnets of the world started striking back and I want to be there to guide them. Johnny Lawrence's Cobra Kai is the way forward:



I got goosebumps at 1:11 when the music changed.