The Freak's Rating: A : Sometimes you head into a movie wanting to hate it. The original Karate Kid was one of my favorite films as a child. I revisited the film recently and found that, for the most part, it stood up to the test of time and was still a solid picture. There were flaws for sure, but it was overall a really good film. Seeing the overpriveledged Jaden Smith cast as the lead in a remake made me, shall I say less than enthusiastic about the possibility of the film being anything more than a failed remake. Amazingly, I found myself liking this reimagining better than the original.
You can never replace Pat Morita's Mr. Miyagi. "Wax on, wax off" is one of many quotes that will live on in cinema history and the likeability of the character is through the roof. That said, if you were going to attempt to develop a similar character, look no further than Jackie Chan. The casting for the film is wonderful. The two leads play off each other wonderfully and as much as I don't want to say it, Smith does a great job for the age he is. Granted, he does come from acting royalty and his parents were on set throughout the entire production. Chan is wonderful as Mr Han. Though a few lines are straight from the original, Chan does perfect work at creating a new character that is almost as likeable as the original.
Writing is perfect for a family film. There are plenty of emotional moments to lock you in on character development. Humor is there, but not in your face, a perfect replication of the original's style. Tension is built just enough and there is even a small romance that is tolerable, though cheesy.
When all is said and done, The Karate Kid remake is a fantastic family film. Those who loved the original but are holding out on seeing this one, should wait no longer. Strong casting and writing make this one a keeper.
