The Karate Kid was a film that acquired critical acclaim upon its release on June 22, 1984. From John G. Avildsen, known for the movie Rocky, released in 1976, the underdog 80s classic version of The Karate Kid tells the story of Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio), a boy who moved from Newark, New Jersey to a small apartment complex in California. Daniel unknowingly makes a mistake of hitting on a girl named Ali (Elisabeth Shue), the ex-girlfriend of Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka), who then gives him a pummeling, the event that kick starts the main plot.

The multiple fight sequences throughout the movie involving Daniel and Johnny can be considered cornball but the ante is upped when Daniel wants to compete in a karate tournament. Handyman karate-master Mr. Miyagi (Noriyuki “Pat” Morita who attended Armijo in the 1940s) takes Daniel under his wing, teaching him karate using not-so-conventional methods. “Wax on, wax off?” Iconic, isn’t it?

Although the plot is a predictable “new kid on the block” situation, the movie is quite enjoyable. What makes this movie so wonderful is that the friendship that develops between Mr. Miyagi and Daniel is heartwarming to witness which makes this movie unique.

The cinematography flows well throughout the movie while the soundtrack used is somewhat cheesy, especially with the East Asian flutes being played in almost every scene with Mr. Miyagi.

The Karate Kid is a feel-good film that has been loved for many, many years. If you haven’t seen this movie yet, I very much recommend as it is a great movie.