This is a true classic from the 1980’s. If you have never seen The Karate Kid, then you surely you must have heard of it. It was a standout picture from this decade, and brought some remember able moments in cinematic history. John G. Avildsen directed this one, and it was written by Robert Mark Kamen.
The simple tagline was “Only the ‘Old One’ could teach him the secrets of the masters”
The basic story is about a boy who grows up trying to fit in. He is lost without his former friends from where he lived before. He fancy’s a girl at school who has had a better life than him in some ways. He wants to be popular and yet surprisingly tries many ways to find acceptance at the new school he is at. He has no father, and is raised by a single mother. The character Daniel Larusso played by Ralph Macchio is mentored by the late Pat Morita who plays the infamous Mr. Kesuke Miyagi. He teaches Daniel discipline through the ways of martial arts, particularly karate. Miyagi molds Daniel into growing up with his wits and using his fists as a last resort.
Daniel loves his mother dearly, and would willingly do anything he could to help her. There are moments of teen frustration and anguish throughout the story, which most people should identify with. He meets up with Elisabeth Shue who plays Ali Mills she helps to encourage him along the way while falling for him. The final showdown happens later between Daniel and Johnny Lawrence who is played by William Zabka who does an excellent job playing a real jerk. More appearances in this include Ron Thomas as Bobby Brown, Rob Garrison as Tommy, Chad McQueen as Dutch, Tony O’Dell as Jimmy, Martin Kove is John Kreese, Israel Juarbe is Freddy Fernandez, and William Bassett is Mr. Mills. Larry B. Scott is Jerry, Juli Fields is Susan, and Dana Andersen is Barbara.
I think the characters are interesting and you get to know them well in the story, this movie spawned a total of 3 more sequels, and the entire collection is available on DVD. You will appreciate seeing this one. I recommend everyone to watch this if you haven’t already. Peter Cetera’s “Glory of Love” would later be used as the theme song in the sequel “The Karate Kid, Part II (1986)”.
I went to see this with my family in the theatre when it was released, and have since watched it a couple more times over the years; it was quite good for a science fiction piece. The story takes place in the future of course with a vision of floating cabs in the skyline and robotics at each and every turn. There are some alien creatures in this as well, which creates some interesting scenarios that happen. Some of them are friendly and others of course are not. There are some big name actors in this film and they put their talents to the test portraying different types of characters we haven’t really seen much of before. The lead role was tailor made to fit Bruce Willis playing the part of Korben Dallas who is much like Officer John McClane who he played in the Die Hard (1988) movie series that made him a super star.
This is another example of giving a writer a chance at bringing their work to the screen with the vision they had, and this is exactly what happened when they let Luc Besson direct this as well. Robert Mark Kamen also helped in writing the initial screenplay. I think this is one of the best casts I’ve seen in a movie put together. Everyone fit the role perfectly, and it really helped bringing dimension to the story. It also seemed like they had very well rehearsed scenes working together going over each and every little detail.
Milla Jovovich plays the part of Leeloo, an alien being who was regenerated through advanced technology. She is vulnerable yet strong in her own right as the missing link in the salvation of Earth. She falls into the cab that Korben drives, and from then on the story gets more complex. Ian Holm plays the part of Father Vito Cornelius, who is a descendant of the original priests who were keepers of a key that will unlock something very important in helping save our world. At the start of the story, we see Luke Perry appear as Billy at this ancient ruin, where the aliens first come in contact with humans they are called Monascheiwans who help make sure the existence of humanity is ensured. Brion James portrays General Munro in this, and brings a bit of sarcasm to his character while doing a great job with the role.
We later see Chris Tucker playing the off the wall character named Ruby Rhod, who is a futuristic celebrity who broadcasts on television and the radio of the future. Tommy ‘Tiny’ Lister is President Lindberg. Gary Oldman is Jean-Baptiste Emanuel Zorg, who tries to take over with his ways, and uses the the Mangalores who are a savage race and very primitive but strong at warfare to aid him. Lee Evans is the character Fog, and Charlie Creed-Miles plays the role of David.
This is an intriguing film for those who like science fiction action type movies, and enjoy a good solid story with lots of explosions and big-budget special effects. But, I don’t think this film will appeal to everyone. I will recommend it to the science fiction fans for sure though.
