The Karate Kid

A young outsider discovers the power of martial arts and friendship in a new world.

Critics broadly regard it as a warm, sincere, highly accessible coming-of-age sports drama whose familiar formula is elevated by the chemistry between Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita.

• Daniel's relationship with Miyagi turns practical chores and karate instruction into a path toward confidence and self-control.
• Daniel moves from New Jersey to Reseda and struggles against school bullying and an unfamiliar surfer culture.
• Miyagi prepares Daniel for the All-Valley tournament after Daniel is targeted by the Cobra Kai students.
• Painting fences and waxing cars initially appear unrelated to karate but structure Daniel's physical instruction.

• The Mighty Duckscoming of age drama centered on bullying, mentorship, self-discipline, and a climactic youth competition
• Hoosierswarm teen sports story featuring an outsider, an inspirational mentor, friendship, and an uplifting underdog arc
• Dirty Dancing1980s coming of age film blending teenage romance, social outsider status, music, and emotionally cathartic personal growth

Director

John G. Avildsen

Release Date

1984-06-22

Runtime

127 min

Rating

7.2 / 10 (4934)

What is The Karate Kid about?

A displaced New Jersey teenager finds discipline, friendship, and self-respect through a wise mentor and a high-stakes karate tournament.

What is The Karate Kid like to watch?

Ember's analysis rates the pacing of The Karate Kid as measured, its intensity as moderate and its storytelling as easy to follow.

Is The Karate Kid violent?

Only mildly. Ember rates the violence in The Karate Kid as mild.

What did critics think of The Karate Kid?

Critics broadly regard it as a warm, sincere, highly accessible coming-of-age sports drama whose familiar formula is elevated by the chemistry between Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita.

Which films are like The Karate Kid?

Films with a similar feel include The Mighty Ducks, Hoosiers, and Dirty Dancing.

How long is The Karate Kid?

The Karate Kid runs 127 minutes.

Where can I watch The Karate Kid?

In United States, The Karate Kid streams on Netflix, Philo, YouTube TV.