Sony unveils the Karate Kid reboot logo while confirming that filming is officially underway. The movie marks the sixth film installment in the franchise and will see Ralph Macchio reprise his role as the original “karate kid,” Danny LaRusso. Jackie Chan, who portrayed Mr. Han in the 2010 Karate Kid remake, will also reprise his role. While Macchio and Chan will likely portray mentor roles, American Born Chinese star Ben Wang will be the titular protagonist. Shortly after Wang’s casting was announced, the movie received another exciting update.
Sony Pictures took to Twitter/X to announce that filming has officially started on Karate Kid. In addition to kicking off production, the photos gave a glimpse of the movie’s logo.
The font is a bit reminiscent of the Cobra Kai TV show’s logo, though a bit cleaner and simpler. Wang also appears in the photo behind a clapperboard, along with the edge of a pizza box from a restaurant “family owned since 2008.”
The Karate Kid reboot has stirred much curiosity, considering it is the first new movie in the franchise in 14 years and the first to bring back LaRusso since 1989. When it was first announced, many expected the new film would be a direct sequel to the original series or remake, while some hoped it would connect to the spinoff Cobra Kai. However, the news that Macchio and Chan would be appearing together was unexpected, as it wasn’t even clear if the two characters were in the same universe. Although surprising, it increased curiosity.
Wang impressed audiences with his acting skills in the lead role of American Born Chinese, and he is known to have a background in martial arts. He also won’t be alone in his action skills, as he’ll be starring alongside kung fu practitioner Chan and Wushu black belt holder Ming-Na Wen. The lineup promises some epic fight scenes. Joshua Jackson, Sadie Stanley, Aramis Knight, and Wyatt Oleff have also joined the cast in undisclosed roles.
Viewers may have to wait until closer to the movie’s December 14 release to get a better idea of the story. It is believed the film follows a student from China (Wang) who begins training under Mr. Han. The biggest remaining questions are how LaRusso and Mr. Han cross paths, and whether any other Karate Kid stars will appear. It’s confirmed the movie won’t tie into Cobra Kai, but will somehow tie into the original film series. Now that production is officially underway, further updates on the Karate Kid reboot should be forthcoming.
Source: Sony Pictures/Twitter/X