Action legend Jackie Chan proves he’s still got it in the newly unveiled trailer for “Karate Kid: Legends” at CinemaCon, held at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Sporting gray hair and age-appropriate athleisure, Chan stunned the audience with a lightning-fast kitchen fight scene, showcasing his signature martial arts prowess.
The highly anticipated sequel brings together Ralph Macchio, reprising his iconic role as Daniel LaRusso from the original 1984 film, and Chan, returning as Mr. Han from the 2010 remake. Set three years after the final season of “Cobra Kai,” the film introduces a new student, Li Fong, played by Ben Wang of “American Born Chinese” fame. Joining the cast are Joshua Jackson, Sadie Stanley, and Ming-Na Wen.
Directed by Jonathan Entwistle (“The End of the F—ing World”) and written by Rob Lieber (“Peter Rabbit”), the film promises to bridge generations with a fresh story while retaining the essence of the beloved franchise.
At the CinemaCon presentation, Macchio and Wang took the stage to introduce the trailer. “I’m honoured to return to theaters again playing Daniel LaRusso,” Macchio said. The stars brought a touch of nostalgia, demonstrating the iconic “wax on, wax off” move from the original.
The trailer itself kicked off with a vibrant drum processional, lantern-bearers, and dancers performing fluid kung-fu moves, building anticipation for Chan’s epic return. In the showcased kitchen fight, Chan’s agility and charisma were on full display as he trained his young co-star. Despite his 70 years, Chan’s movements were precise and powerful, as he leaped across a marble island, proving that he still kicks ass.
The plot hints at Chan’s character pursuing Macchio to fulfil a promise made by Mr. Miyagi, the beloved sensei played by the late Pat Morita. The film’s unique blend of legacy characters and fresh faces has fans buzzing, eager to see the old and new collide on the big screen.