John G. Avildsen not only directed Rocky, he tried remaking it over the years in a dozen different ways. One of them was this popular 1984 drama about a new kid (Ralph Macchio) in town targeted by karate-wielding bullies until he gets a new mentor: the handyman (Pat Morita) from his apartment building, who teaches him self-confidence and fighting skills. The screen partnership of Macchio's motor-mouth character and Morita's reserved father figure works well, and the script allows for the younger man to develop sympathy for the painful memories of his teacher. But the film's real engine, as with Rocky, is the fighting, and there's plenty of that. Elisabeth Shue is on board as the girl the klutzy Macchio dreams of winning. --Tom Keogh
Spotlight customer reviews:
Customer Rating: Summary: A minor classic! Comment: It's a little surprising to realize that "The Karate Kid" is now 24 years old. Made in 1984, it still holds its own in 2008. In fact, it's a LOT better than many of the movies being churned out today.
Why? For me, it's simply the excellent acting. Somehow, the chemistry between "Daniel-san" and "Mister Miyagi" is excellent, and memorable. Without this, the movie would have been forgotten decades ago.
"Daniel's" mother also does an excellent job, deftly managing to portray a total airhead without so much as a hint that anything is wrong. (What DID happen to Daniel's father, anyway?)
To my mind (and time will tell) this re-make of "Rocky" is, oddly enough, a lot better than the original! That doesn't happen very often!
A very high recommendation, especially if you are getting tired of films full of nothing but explosions. Customer Rating: Summary: A classic and must see! Comment: This movie is a classic that is a must see for all. My brother and I grew up watching this movie, and it just so happened that it is a favorite of my husband's as well. It is family friendly and entertaining. There are good messages throughout the movie. I would highly recommend it to everyone. Customer Rating: Summary: Nice to see.... Comment: Nice to see that they put "3" and the "next karate kid" on one disc... I feel less wasteful throwing those away, because let's face it.. they don't count.
Plus, this is cheaper than buying 1 and 2 separate. Customer Rating: Summary: An '80s Classic. Comment: The Karate Kid starring Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita is truly a treasure from the '80s. I love this film so much, I remember watching this movie over and over again as a little girl. Elisabeth Shue also stars, she is great in this film, I am a big fan of her work. I love the scene where Macchio's character goes to a Halloween party dressed like a shower, it's hilarious! I highly recommend this coming of age flick, great to watch with family and friends, enjoy! Customer Rating: Summary: classic must see Comment: my kid initiating on karate lessons. don't ever get to this without watching with him the movie...
