Movie: The Karate Kid

Directed by Harold Zwart
Actors Jackie Chan, Jaden Smith and Taraji P. Henson
MPAA rating: PG
Running time: 14 mins
Tagline: A Challenge He Never Imagined. A Teacher He Never Expected.

12-year-old Dre Parker could've been the most popular kid in Detroit, but his mother's latest career move has landed him in China. Dre immediately falls for his classmate Mei Ying - and the feeling is mutual - but cultural differences make such a friendship impossible. Even worse, Dre's feelings make an enemy of the class bully, Cheng. In the land of kung fu, Dre knows only a little karate, and Cheng puts "the karate kid" on the floor with ease. With no friends in a strange land, Dre has nowhere to turn but maintenance man Mr. Han, who is secretly a master of kung fu. As Han teaches Dre that kung fu is not about punches and parries, but maturity and calm, Dre realizes that facing down the bullies will be the fight of his life.

I picked this movie because I’ve been wanting to see it

What I liked the Most? Jackie Chan was a perfect Mr Miyagi type teacher – he totally rocked this movie from start to finish

What I liked the Least? Jaden’s attitude through most of the movie & the absolute bullying that was allowed. (Even though Mohawk boy was kinda cool)

Review: Okay, yet again I must go into a review saying – geezus people, get a grip – this is a movie – it is meant to be entertaining nothing more, nothing less – and entertaining it is. Whether you liked the original or not – whether you like Jackie Chan or Jaden Smith or not – whether you like fight movies or not. It entertains.

Much of "The Karate Kid" is predictable, given its homage to the original story, but I was won over with Jackie Chan by great heart. He and Jaden have a magical relationship very reminscient of the orginial movie. Jackie Chan really displays depth and range in his character Han, especially with the painful secret. Jaden Smith has great spirit whether he is enduring great pain or stumbling with pretty Mei-Ying. Life is in the paradox. Everything is kung fu—courage, honor, and love. "The Karate Kid" honors this with great compassion, humor, and heart. It is about seeing the greatness in others.

Recommended to: Anyone who wants to be entertained

Best Quote: “Your focus needs more focus”