This is a remake of the original flick of 1984 of the same name. The movie stars Jaden Smith – yes, Will’s boy – as the eponymous star and Jackie Chan in the elderly mentor role.

The story follows along the same lines as the first two original Karate Kid movies. Dre Parker (Smith) and his mother (Taraji P. Henson) move to China from Detroit because of her career. As soon as they are settled, Dre develops a crush on local violinist Mei Ying (Wenwen Han) who returns his attentions. But it isn’t long before Dre is being humiliated and bullied by classmate Cheng because of this attachment. During a sound Kung Fu thrashing by Cheng, Dre is saved by quiet and unassuming Mr. Han (Chan) in the Mr. Miyagi role. Unfortunately for Dre, he soon learns that although Kung Fu will give him an awesome amount of power, he must respect others and only use his power for good.

This movie contains all the high speed high kicking Kung Fu action that we have all grown to expect from a Jackie Chan movie. Although some of the set pieces are starting to look a little too contrived from this aging master. Jaden gives a convincing performance and movie goers will see an enigmatic performance by the real star of ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ and it is very pleasing to see him growing up into a fine young man.



We all know the story and what will happen at the end, but it is still satisfying watching the development of the characters. It is a convincing bonding of pupil and master.

The supposedly subtle subliminal messages are not so subtle. The beauty of China against bleak, run down Detroit buildings is a constant message in the background. The grandeur of the 2008 Olympic Bird’s Nest Stadium and the Forbidden City and, of course, the Great Wall itself is a stark contrast to the foreclosure signs in their home town. Are these simple messages of China’s growing economy? They may wash over the heads of the young audience, who will see a new coming of age movie perhaps.

By the end of the film, you will be immersed in the excitement and heat of the tournament and will be cheering with everyone else. The build up and crescendo makes the final battle every bit as worthwhile as you believe it to be. One point: why on earth didn’t they call it the ‘Kung Fu Kid’?


Name   Comment Verification Code

More posts, Page # :