In a thrilling new chapter of the beloved Karate Kid franchise, Sony Pictures has officially released the trailer for Karate Kid: Legends, which debuted during their CinemaCon presentation on April 2, 2025. This upcoming film brings together iconic characters Mr. Han, played by Jackie Chan, and Daniel LaRusso, portrayed by Ralph Macchio, as they team up to train a new karate prodigy, Li Fong, played by Ben Wang.
The film's synopsis reveals that Li Fong relocates to New York City with his mother after a family tragedy, seeking a fresh start. As he navigates the challenges of fitting in at a prestigious school, he forms a friendship with a classmate and her father. However, his newfound peace is disrupted when he draws the ire of a local karate champion. Driven by the need to defend himself, Li embarks on a journey to enter a high-stakes karate competition, learning to merge the unique styles of his mentors, Mr. Han and Daniel LaRusso, along the way.
Set three years after the events of the popular series Cobra Kai, Karate Kid: Legends marks the first time Macchio and Chan will share the screen, bridging the gap between the original films and the recent reboot. The film promises to deliver a mix of action, heart, and nostalgia, appealing to long-time fans while introducing a new generation to the franchise.
Director Jonathan Entwistle, known for his work on The End of the F***ing World, helms this exciting installment, with a screenplay penned by Rob Lieber, who has previously worked on family-friendly hits like Peter Rabbit and Goosebumps 2. The cast features a diverse lineup, including Joshua Jackson, Sadie Stanley, and Ming-Na Wen, who bring additional depth to the story.
The trailer, which runs for two minutes and thirty seconds, showcases the film's action-packed sequences and heartfelt moments, including a nod to the classic training montages that fans have come to love. It highlights Li Fong's struggle to adapt to his new life while also hinting at the emotional weight of his backstory.
As the trailer unfolds, viewers are treated to glimpses of the intense karate competition that serves as the film's climax, where Li must prove himself against formidable opponents. The film's tagline, "In life you have only one question: is it worth fighting for, or not?" captures the essence of Li's journey as he grapples with his identity and the legacy of his mentors.
Moreover, the film aims to weave new connections within the established Karate Kid universe. Director Entwistle teased that Karate Kid: Legends will explore the historical ties between Mr. Han and Mr. Miyagi, offering fans a deeper understanding of their shared legacy. "Without giving too much away, I can say that Mr. Han and Mr. Miyagi are the connection to Daniel. The Han family and the Miyagi family are connected all the way back to the old times," he stated, encouraging fans to pay attention to the subtle references throughout the film.
As anticipation builds for the film's release, fans are eager to see how Li Fong's story will unfold and how he will blend the teachings of both Mr. Han and Daniel LaRusso. Karate Kid: Legends is set to hit theaters on May 30, 2025, just in time for the summer movie season.
In addition to the main cast, the film includes a talented ensemble featuring characters that enrich Li's journey. Joshua Jackson plays Victor, the father of Li's friend, while Ming-Na Wen portrays Li's mother. The film also introduces new characters like Connor, Li's nemesis, played by Aramis Knight, and Ms. Morgan, portrayed by Shaunette Renée Wilson.
As the Karate Kid franchise continues to evolve, Karate Kid: Legends stands out as a promising addition that not only honors its roots but also paves the way for new stories and characters. With its blend of martial arts action, emotional depth, and nostalgic callbacks, the film is set to resonate with both old fans and newcomers alike.
With the excitement surrounding the new trailer and the film's rich history, audiences are reminded of the Karate Kid's enduring legacy. As Li Fong prepares for his ultimate showdown, fans are left wondering: will he rise to the occasion and become the next Karate Kid?
