It’s a big year for Ralph Macchio and the “Karate Kid” universe. As the martial arts franchise celebrates two major releases in 2025, Macchio’s Daniel LaRusso makes his cinematic return this month in “Karate Kid: Legends.” The film introduces Ben Wang as Li Fong, a kung fu student from Beijing, trained by Mr. Han (Jackie Chan). Fong’s journey takes him from China to New York, where he encounters LaRusso, leading to a new chapter in the Karate Kid saga. This article delves into Macchio’s insights on “Karate Kid: Legends,” the passing of the torch to a new generation, and the timeless appeal of the franchise.
The film also introduces actor Ben Wang as Li Fong, the new karate kid on the block, a skilled kung fu student from Beijing. He trains under Mr. Han, played by martial arts movie legend Jackie Chan, the mentor to Jaden Smith’s character in 2010’s “The Karate Kid” reboot. Fong is forced to give up his training when his mom (Ming-Na Wen) hands her son a Mets hat and ships the family to the Big Apple to start a new life away from violence and a past tragedy. However, trouble seems to find Fong, who needs the help of his old kung fu master, plus LaRusso, who must channel his late sensei Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita) to teach Fong karate if he’s to have any chance of winning the big city-wide tournament.
Daniel LaRusso’s Return and Li Fong’s Journey
Ralph Macchio reprises his role as Daniel LaRusso in “Karate Kid: Legends,” but the spotlight shines on Ben Wang’s character, Li Fong. Fong, a kung fu student from Beijing, moves to New York and must adapt to a new life. He encounters LaRusso, who guides him in karate, echoing the mentorship of Mr. Miyagi. Director Jonathan Entwistle emphasizes that “Legends” is Fong’s story, focusing on his immigrant experience and martial arts journey. Unlike previous Karate Kids, Fong begins with martial arts skills, adding a fresh dynamic to the narrative. Quotes from Entwistle highlight the focus on Fong’s character development and his unique challenges.
While fans get to see LaRusso punching and kicking again — his action scenes with Chan’s Han are particularly delightful — director Jonathan Entwistle notes that “Legends” is first and foremost Fong’s story.
“It was very important to me that we weren’t making a ‘Cobra Kai’ film, we weren’t making a Miyagi film. We’re actually making Li Fong’s film,” Entwistle says.
Macchio on “Cobra Kai’s” Ending and LaRusso’s Balance
The film takes place after the events of “Cobra Kai,” a decision important to Ralph Macchio. He appreciated his character’s arc in the series finale and wanted to maintain that balance. Macchio reflects on LaRusso’s journey in “Cobra Kai,” where he sometimes acted as a “jerk” to facilitate Johnny Lawrence’s redemption. Macchio emphasizes the importance of LaRusso finding peace and balance, embodying Mr. Miyagi’s teachings. This evolution sets the stage for LaRusso’s role in mentoring Li Fong in “Karate Kid: Legends.” The connection to Miyagi remains central to LaRusso’s character.
“We had 65 fun episodes where [LaRusso] kind of acted like a jerk at times to create the Johnny Lawrence redemption and all that stuff, and it was fun and exciting,” Macchio says. “But it was always, ‘What’s the endgame for him?’ And then what would be the next stage, what is that point of his life where he’s kind of at peace, has found balance, is more Miyagi in his own way of dealing with things?”
Casting Ben Wang: A New Karate Kid
The search for the right actor to play Li Fong involved thousands of auditions. Ben Wang, born in Shanghai and raised in Minnesota, impressed the team with his martial arts and acting skills. Wang’s ability to blend martial arts with charm and wit drew comparisons to Peter Parker and Marty McFly. Entwistle wanted Fong to be confident and quick-witted, moving away from the “meek immigrant” stereotype. Wang’s bilingualism and bicultural background added depth to the character. Macchio praises Wang’s work ethic and openness, comparing him to “a young Jackie Chan.”
Entwisle and team went through thousands of audition tapes before finding the right actor for the role. Wang, who was born in Shanghai before his family moved to Minnesota, is fluent in Mandarin and English, and was able to bring both martial arts and acting skills.
New York Setting and the Miyagi Connection
“Karate Kid: Legends” shifts the setting to New York, a change from previous films. Despite the new location, the film honors its origins by connecting to Mr. Miyagi. Ralph Macchio’s involvement links the film to Miyagi, with director Entwistle emphasizing that “all iterations have a piece of Daniel in there.” The team used footage from “The Karate Kid II” to establish Miyagi’s connection to Mr. Han. Chan and Macchio share a scene that highlights their ties to Miyagi, reinforcing the franchise’s legacy. This connection ensures that the new film remains true to its roots while exploring new territory.
Entwistle says the “Legends” team “went deep into the vaults to find different cuts, different scans,” and other sequences from “The Karate Kid II” for an opening sequence featuring Morita and a much younger Macchio, establishing Miyagi’s connection to Han and his family. Chan and Macchio’s characters later have a moving scene centered around their links to Miyagi.
Franchise’s Enduring Appeal
Jonathan Entwistle attributes the “Karate Kid” franchise’s success to its “big heart” and themes of mentorship and hard work. Ralph Macchio notes the human-level connection, with fans relating to the “coming of age elements” and overcoming obstacles. Macchio emphasizes the franchise’s positive impact, especially in a world that is not always positive. He sees his character as resonating with young kids, offering a sense of hope and inspiration. The combination of timeless themes and relatable characters keeps the “Karate Kid” world alive.
Even going back to the first film, Macchio says “it always worked on a human level,” noting how fans can relate to the “coming of age elements” and story lines of overcoming bullies and other obstacles.
Conclusion: A New Chapter Begins
“Karate Kid: Legends” is set to open in theaters on May 30, bringing a new chapter to the beloved franchise. Ralph Macchio returns as Daniel LaRusso, guiding Ben Wang’s Li Fong in his martial arts journey. The film honors the legacy of Mr. Miyagi while exploring new themes of immigration and cultural adaptation. With a blend of action, heart, and mentorship, “Karate Kid: Legends” promises to resonate with both long-time fans and new audiences. The film’s focus on Li Fong’s story, combined with the return of familiar faces, ensures a fresh yet nostalgic experience.
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