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Let it be known that The Karate Kid is one of my absolute favourite movies of all time. An instantly likable flick, it has a great cast, a story suitable for all ages, and one of the best relationships in movie history; not just between the the two main characters, but between the viewer and the film, too. There's no denying that, among others, magic and triumph-in-the-air movies were the most produced in the 80's. They had/have a timeless charm that was unique. Seriously, anyone tired of watching Back to the Future or the original Terminator?
The Karate Kid is a feelgood, loosely energetic, and highly entertaining film about a bullied kid who wants to learn karate as a means to defend himself. His caretaker in his new home, Mr. Miyagi proves more than a friendly person, more than a just a caretaker: he becomes an uncle-figure of sorts to young Daniel and ultimately becomes his karate master and helps him win the tournament. Although the film opens on a decent note, the first 15-20 minutes will leave you with mixed feelings, as the film doesn't come to its true pace. After when it crosses that mark, Karate Kid finds its pace, and without becoming too much of Rocky, continues peacefully in its own manner, almost like an original work. Although, yes, the film does become cheesy in the end - crane kick with a broken leg? Sure! - but that's all right, because it's an 80's flick, and cheesiness is all part of it. Watch Commando and you will understand!
Ralph Macchio plays Daniel, the protagonist. Macchio may be a name lost among young teenagers nowadays, me included (I only know him from this film and My Cousin Vinny), he nevertheless gave arguably one of the greatest performances in young adults history. He captured and expressed the smallest nuances of a hero whose soul has been dampened but never defeated. His nervous twitches, body language, muttering under the breath, everything was perfect, realistic. Check out the part when he and Mr. Miyagi are trying to catch a fly using chopsticks. I bet he forgot there were cameras on him. Noriyuki "Pat" Morita is another name lost among us but since Mr. Miyagi is a widely appreciated character and since his name often pops up in "great movie characters" list, Morita receives silent, dignified recognition from those who have time to give it. He easily gave a classic performance, making Mr. Miyagi an accessible and beloved character of modern times, and possibly of all times. Remember, when Mr. Miyagi speaks, we all listen. Elizabeth Shue was quite tasty in her role as Ali Mills but felt too one-dimensional, at least for a majority of the film. Another performance I enjoyed was by William Zabka as Johnny, the film's main antagonist. He gave a convincing performance without stressing too hard. Although never appearing onscreen without sporting a Draco Malfoy-esque smirk first and never having more than 5 lines in a row, he was one of the realistically written characters. The only qualm I have is of Randee Heller's character, Lucille - Daniel's mother. Her performance, although electric in the short screen-time she gets, was terribly underused. I would've loved to see more of her. Her character, unfortunately, doesn't rise up against the others, and was the most under-developed character that almost too quickly disappears into obscurity the more the film progresses.
In conclusion, The Karate Kid is a great film, a must watch for all ages. It is a timeless classic!
8.5/10
