Top Karate Kid Films Ranked

This week marks the release of *Karate Kid: Legends*, a film that unites the beloved 1980s *Karate Kid* saga with the 2010 reboot, which was originally intended to exist outside the original continuity. Now, Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan join forces as martial arts mentors Daniel LaRusso and Mr. Han, respectively—ushering in a new era that blends two distinct yet now interconnected worlds. To celebrate this cinematic convergence, we’ve ranked all five *Karate Kid* films for fans both old and new.

And to address the question on everyone’s mind: yes, *Netflix's Cobra Kai* remains canon in relation to *Karate Kid: Legends*. While no characters from *Cobra Kai* will be appearing in the new film, *Legends* does not contradict or erase the events of the popular series. Set three years after the *Cobra Kai* finale, *Legends* follows Jackie Chan’s Mr. Han as he seeks out Daniel LaRusso’s help to train and guide a promising young student named Li Fong, portrayed by Ben Wang (*American Born Chinese*).

The original *Karate Kid* films feature the late, legendary Pat Morita as the wise and compassionate Mr. Miyagi, guiding both Daniel and later Julie (played by Hilary Swank) through life’s trials with karate as their metaphorical compass. The 2010 reboot starred Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith, echoing the mentor-student dynamic of the classic duo while introducing a fresh generation to the timeless message of perseverance and honor.

Ranking the Karate Kid Movies

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