For several months, it has been known that Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan would portray martial arts instructors in a new film set within the Karate Kid universe. With the presence of the Netflix series Cobra Kai, there has been curiosity about this new movie. At the New York Comic Con, Sony revealed some details, announcing the film’s title as Karate Kid Legends.
The story stars Ben Wang as Li Fong, a new student who learns martial arts from Daniel LaRusso, played by Macchio, and Mr. Han, portrayed by Chan. The cast also includes Joshua Jackson, Shaunette Renée Wilson, Ming-Na Wen, Aramis Knight, Sadie Stanley, Wyatt Olef, and Jennifer-Lyn Christie. Both Chan and Macchio contributed a video introduction for the film’s first trailer, which was exclusively screened at the event. They mentioned that New York City plays a significant role in the storyline, making it an appropriate setting for the announcement.
The trailer suggests that Mr. Han takes a prominent role among the legacy characters, discussing traditions rooted in both karate and kung fu. A meeting occurs between Han and LaRusso, with the latter expecting Han to be seeking Mr. Miyagi. However, Han clarifies, “I did not come looking for Mr. Miyagi. I came looking for you.”
Additional scenes in the trailer feature Li (portrayed by Wang) navigating New York City, getting ambushed on the subway, and training with Mr. Han. Action sequences show Li being pursued by an unknown opponent through the streets. The trailer builds to a climax with Li competing in multiple matches at a tournament, highlighted by LaRusso’s statement, “Two branches, one tree,” implying a collaboration between Han and himself.
While the trailer provides some insight, further details remain scarce. It is evident that the film centers around the partnership of the two senseis, who share a history that LaRusso does not fully understand. Li stands at the core of their narrative, with the setting primarily in New York City. There remains speculation about whether characters from Cobra Kai will appear, though it seems unlikely given the series’ timeline.
In addition to the trailer, a promotional poster was released, hinting at the film’s tagline, “Legends are forever.” Karate Kid Legends, featuring Jackie Chan, Ben Wang, and Ralph Macchio, is scheduled for exclusive release in theaters on May 30, 2025. Meanwhile, Cobra Kai will return to Netflix with the second part of its final season on November 15, with the concluding episodes arriving early next year, leading into this film. Karate Kid Legends is directed by Jonathan Entwistle.
