Breaking New Ground in the Karate Kid Franchise
Ben Wang’s role in the upcoming movie marks a significant milestone: he is the franchise’s first Asian American “Kid.” This fact did not immediately dawn on Wang when he was cast, but it fills him with pride and optimism. “At first I didn’t even think about that,” Wang shared with sources familiar with the matter. “That feels like a very cool and actually privileged position that I get to be in.”
His casting reflects changing times, where diversity and representation are becoming more normal in Hollywood. The film, “Karate Kid: Legends,” which premieres this Friday, brings together iconic characters Ralph Macchio’s Daniel LaRusso and Jackie Chan’s Mr. Han from the 2010 reboot. Together, they mentor Wang’s character, Li Fong, as he competes in a New York City karate tournament.
Historical Context and Representation Challenges
The original “Karate Kid” film, released over 40 years ago, featured Pat Morita as the sole main Asian American actor, despite the story being set in California’s San Fernando Valley. Morita’s Mr. Miyagi became a beloved mentor figure, guiding underdog Daniel through challenges posed by predominantly white karate bullies. This storyline has been revisited and adapted in sequels and spin-offs but consistently lacked significant Asian American youth representation—a point that has drawn criticism.
Experts on Asian American media note that while many enjoy the “Miyagi-verse,” the absence of young Asian American leads remains a persistent issue. Even recent series like Netflix’s “Cobra Kai” feature few Asian American main characters, which some view as a missed opportunity. One commentator described this gap as a “loose, nagging tooth” in the franchise’s otherwise entertaining offerings.
Martial Arts and Hollywood: A Complex Legacy
Asian martial artists have long been celebrated in cinema, with legends like Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Jet Li paving the way. Yet, Hollywood has often failed to portray Asian characters in fully developed roles, frequently relegating them to stereotypes or secondary parts. The rise of karate and martial arts in the U.S., especially during the 1970s and ’80s, helped set the stage for “The Karate Kid.” Dojos became popular nationwide, expanding martial arts’ cultural footprint.
A local martial arts grandmaster recalls how the original film sparked a surge of interest among young students of diverse backgrounds. Meanwhile, stunt professionals who worked on the initial movie remember the dedication of the cast and the excitement surrounding the project. For them, Morita was a standout lead despite the limited Asian representation.
Full Circle: Jackie Chan’s Role and New Generations
It is a full-circle moment that Jackie Chan returns as a mentor figure in the new movie, sharing combat choreography with Wang. The young actor describes working alongside Chan as an unforgettable experience, noting, “He’s the guy you think he is. He doesn’t turn it off when he’s not on set.”
Martial arts films continue to shape perceptions and inspire new generations. For example, a martial artist and stunt coordinator expressed relief that his children are growing up without the negative Asian stereotypes he faced. He initially hesitated to appear on a talk show for fear of being mocked but found that the segments treated him respectfully.
Young Martial Artists and Representation
Twin brothers known as the “Twinjas,” who practice karate and mixed martial arts, represent the new wave of young Asian American martial artists. They have appeared on popular shows and taught celebrities, embracing their heritage and skills. Their appreciation for the “Karate Kid” series and excitement for the new movie reflect a broader desire for diverse and empowering stories.
For these young athletes, having Asian leads in action and martial arts films is significant. One twin highlighted that while not all stories need Asian leads, their presence is important and meaningful. The twins hope to pursue opportunities that combine acting and martial arts, inspired by trailblazers like Wang.
The Impact of Representation in Martial Arts Films
Wang sees his role in “Karate Kid: Legends” as a source of pride and a benchmark for young Asian American children. He believes the series promotes the idea that anyone can be the “Karate Kid,” breaking barriers and inspiring future generations.
“The word I keep going back to is it’s a privilege,” Wang said. “What I love about this series is … there’s this idea anyone can be the ‘Karate Kid.’”
For more news and updates on Karate Kid: Legends, visit Filipinokami.com.