Karate Kid: Legends to Echo Jackie Chan’s Classic Style

LOS ANGELES, April 10, 2025 — Director Jonathan Entwistle has revealed that the upcoming film Karate Kid: Legends will evoke the essence of early Jackie Chan films, combining martial arts with humor and creative choreography. Set to premiere in theaters on May 30, the film brings together iconic characters Daniel LaRusso, played by Ralph Macchio, and Mr. Han, portrayed by Jackie Chan, as they train a new karate prodigy, Li Fong, played by Ben Wang.

Entwistle emphasized the film’s dedication to authentic martial arts, stating, “Ben was fully training every day with the Chinese stunt team. He knew that I wanted the martial arts in the movie to feel like an early Jackie Chan film, and that’s something we tried really hard to do. We used a lot of classic Hong Kong wire-work.” This approach aims to differentiate the movie from contemporary action films heavily reliant on visual effects.

In discussing the film’s choreography, Entwistle expressed the importance of integrating humor within fight scenes, a hallmark of Chan’s cinematic style. He explained, “There’s a humor to the way the choreography unfolds. Something that Jackie — and the team — taught us was, ‘What’s the narrative for the fight? Does he pick up a thing off the floor and use that?’”

The cinematographic choices reflect a shift back to in-camera techniques instead of the VFX-heavy styles often seen in action films today. Entwistle stated, “It was important for me to bring back an in-camera martial-arts approach,” aiming to create a fresh and engaging viewing experience.

The film’s official synopsis outlines a compelling storyline: after a family tragedy, kung fu prodigy Li Fong relocates from Beijing to New York City with his mother. Struggling to cope with his past and navigate his new environment, Li finds himself inadvertently drawn into trouble. When a friend needs his help, he enters a karate competition, leading to a collaboration with his kung fu teacher Mr. Han and mentor Daniel LaRusso.

As anticipation builds, followers of the franchise can expect Karate Kid: Legends to bridge the tradition of past films with a modern narrative, while celebrating the unique artistry of kung fu and karate. The film aims not just for thrilling action but a narrative depth that invites audiences into the characters’ emotional journeys.