The Karate Kid (1984)
A New Jersey teen finds an unlikely mentor and discovers that true strength comes from within in this beloved martial arts classic.
The Karate Kid - Movie Information
- Original Title: The Karate Kid
- Release Year: 1984
- Directed by: John G. Avildsen
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama, Family
- Age Rating (US): PG
- Runtime: 2h 7m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): June 22, 1984 (United States - PG), August 31, 1984 (United Kingdom - PG), November 9, 1984 (Germany - 12), September 26, 1984 (France - U), September 27, 1984 (Australia - PG), July 5, 1984 (Brazil - 10), November 1, 1984 (Mexico - A), October 25, 1984 (Italy - T), November 16, 1984 (Spain - A)
- Alternative Titles: Sannhetens øyeblikk (NO), پسر کاراتهباز (IR), The Karate Kid - Per vincere domani (IT), Momento da Verdade (PT), Karate Kid - sanningens ögonblick (SE), 小子难缠 (CN)
- Production Companies: Columbia Pictures, Delphi II Productions, Jerry Weintraub Productions
- Production Countries: United States of America
The Karate Kid - Plot
New Jersey teen Daniel LaRusso moves to Los Angeles with his mother, and soon strikes up a relationship with Ali. He quickly finds himself the target of bullying by a group of thugs, led by Ali's ex-boyfriend Johnny, who study karate at the Cobra Kai dojo under ruthless sensei John Kreese. Fortunately, Daniel befriends Mr. Miyagi, an unassuming repairman who just happens to be a martial arts master himself. Miyagi takes Daniel under his wing, training him in a more compassionate form of karate for self-defense and, later, preparing him to compete against the brutal Cobra Kai.
The Karate Kid - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see where Daniel's journey begins:
He taught him the secret to karate lies in the mind and heart. Not in the hands.
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The Karate Kid - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- John G. Avildsen
Main Cast
- Ralph Macchio
- Pat Morita
- Elisabeth Shue
- William Zabka
- Martin Kove
- Randee Heller
- Ron Thomas
- Rob Garrison
- Chad McQueen
- Tony O'Dell
Writers
- Robert Mark Kamen
Producers
- Jerry Weintraub
The Karate Kid - FAQs
What is the famous crane kick scene in The Karate Kid?
The crane kick is the climactic move Daniel LaRusso uses to win the All Valley Karate Tournament. Taught by Mr. Miyagi, Daniel balances on one leg and delivers a decisive strike to Johnny Lawrence's face. It's one of cinema's most iconic sports moments and has become a defining symbol of the entire franchise.
What does "wax on, wax off" mean in The Karate Kid?
"Wax on, wax off" is Mr. Miyagi's method of secretly teaching Daniel karate through everyday chores. The repetitive hand motions used to wax cars, sand floors, and paint fences unknowingly build the defensive muscle memory Daniel needs in combat. It's a brilliant metaphor for learning discipline and patience through seemingly mundane tasks.
Is The Karate Kid based on a true story?
The Karate Kid isn't based on a specific true story, but screenwriter Robert Mark Kamen drew from his own real-life experiences. He studied martial arts and faced bullying as a teenager, lending the film an authentic emotional core. The character of Mr. Miyagi was inspired by the real-life wisdom of Kamen's own karate teachers.
Who are the main actors in The Karate Kid?
Ralph Macchio stars as Daniel LaRusso, with Pat Morita delivering an Oscar-nominated performance as the legendary Mr. Miyagi. Elisabeth Shue plays love interest Ali Mills, while William Zabka is memorably menacing as bully Johnny Lawrence. Martin Kove rounds out the key cast as the ruthless Cobra Kai sensei John Kreese.
Where can you stream The Karate Kid (1984)?
You can watch The Karate Kid on YouTube TV with a subscription, or rent and buy it on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Fandango At Home, and Spectrum On Demand. With so many options available, it's easy to revisit this classic whenever the mood strikes.
Did The Karate Kid win any awards?
Pat Morita earned a well-deserved Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Mr. Miyagi — a rare honor for a performance in a mainstream action-family film. The movie also won a Young Artist Award and was a massive box office success, grossing over $91 million against an $8 million budget.
How long is The Karate Kid?
The Karate Kid runs for 127 minutes, or just over two hours. The pacing moves naturally from Daniel's difficult arrival in Los Angeles through his training montages and all the way to the thrilling tournament finale, making the runtime feel well-earned rather than drawn out.
What are some movies similar to The Karate Kid?
If you loved The Karate Kid, you'll want to check out The Karate Kid Part II (1986) and The Karate Kid (2010) remake. No Retreat, No Surrender (1986) offers a similar martial arts underdog vibe, while Freedom Writers (2007) captures that same spirit of a young person finding strength through an unlikely mentor.
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