The first batch of reviews for Karate Kid: Legends are in for this weekend’s release, and they’re not too favorable, as the Rotten Tomatoes Score is in and comes in on the more negative side of things.
With 44 reviews currently accounted for, the Karate Kid: Legends Rotten Tomatoes score comes in at a “Rotten” 55%. The fan score will be made available this weekend with the full release.
Franchise Scores: Only Two Fresh Films and No Cobra Kai Involvement
Of the five movies in the franchise, only two are considered “Fresh” by the Rotten Tomatoes standards. The first Karate Kid released in 1984 has an 81% score, and the 2010 movie starring Jackie Chan has a 67% score. However, it’s all downhill from there. The Karate Kid Part II released in 1986 has a 48% score, The Karate Kid Part III a 15% score, and The Next Karate Kid a 7% score.
How about Cobra Kai? 94% score from the critics, and 90% from fans. Aside from Ralph Macchio, none of the Cobra Kai creators and producers had anything to do with Karate Kid: Legends.
What do the reviews say?
The negative
Negative reviews of Karate Kid: Legends point to a film weighed down by cliché, weak storytelling, and a lack of emotional depth. Critics widely felt the movie leans too heavily on nostalgia without offering anything new. One critic criticized it for lacking the originality of the first film, while others complained about Ralph Macchio’s late arrival and a rushed plot that skips over key moments. Many critics noted the film feels like a calculated studio product, failing to recapture the heart and emotional resonance of the original. Several reviewers said the script felt thin and formulaic, wasting the talents of its cast. Other pointed out that the movie tries to juggle too much—two storylines that never quite connect—and ends up delivering a confused, unfocused experience. For many critics, Legends is a forgettable installment that pales in comparison to both the original and Cobra Kai.
“has none of the first movie’s originality” – Entertainment Weekly
“Ralph Macchio doesn’t show up for 55 minutes and the film rushes through all the moments fans were waiting for, along with everything else.” – United Press International
“The problem, and this seems to be a recurring theme with Sony, where it feels like a calculated attempt to hook you with nostalgia, only to deliver something that isn’t quite what you expected. And sadly, not in a good, surprisingly delightful way.” – Movie Files
The positive
Positive reviews of Karate Kid: Legends highlight the film’s charm, cast, and nostalgic appeal. Critics praised Ben Wang’s standout performance and likability, with several noting the film’s solid fight choreography and emotional beats that echo the original. One reviewer called the dual-story structure “standardly satisfying,” while another appreciated the familiar emotional arc of a hero’s martial arts journey. Critics pointed out the movie’s tribute to 1980s filmmaking and successful balance of past and present. A reviewer also described it as heartwarming and fun, suitable for family viewing, and another commended its stripped-down, wholesome vibe. Despite flaws, many agreed it offers enough enjoyment, especially for younger viewers and longtime fans willing to embrace its retro spirit.
“Both of the films embedded in ‘Karate Kid: Legends’ are standardly satisfying.” – Slashfilm
“For all the same emotional beats that Legends and the original film share, there is something so satisfying about watching one of these movies and seeing our hero come into their own as a martial artist.” – The Mary Sue
“Fortunately, this 2025 continuation of the series is also a lot of fun, with a fine handling of how to balance the past and present.” – We Live Entertainment
Release info
Karate Kid: Legends gets released Thursday with advanced previews and officially on Friday, May 30th. Jonathan Entwistle is the director.
Who stars?
Starring includes Jackie Chan, Ralph Macchio, Ben Wang, Joshua Jackson, Sadie Stanley, and Ming-Na Wen.
Official plot:
Karate Kid: Legends unites the iconic martial arts masters of one of the most beloved film franchises of all time to tell a completely new story full of action and heart. When kung fu prodigy Li Fong (Ben Wang) relocates to New York City with his mother to attend a prestigious new school, he finds solace in a new friendship with a classmate and her father. But his newfound peace is short-lived after he attracts unwanted attention from a formidable local karate champion. Driven by a desire to defend himself, Li embarks on a journey to enter the ultimate karate competition. Guided by the wisdom of his kung fu teacher, Mr. Han (Jackie Chan), and the legendary Karate Kid, Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio), Li merges their unique styles to prepare for an epic martial arts showdown.
