The Karate Kid
A challenge he never imagined. A teacher he never expected.
Directed by Harald Zwart
Produced by Jerry Weintraub Productions, Columbia Pictures
A coming-of-age martial arts drama about an isolated boy finding mentorship, belonging, and self-discipline in an unfamiliar land.
12-year-old Dre Parker could've been the most popular kid in Detroit, but his mother's latest career move has landed him in China. Dre immediately falls for his classmate Mei Ying but the cultural differences make such a friendship impossible. Even worse, Dre's feelings make him an enemy of the class bully, Cheng. With no friends in a strange land, Dre has nowhere to turn but maintenance man Mr. Han, who is a kung fu master. As Han teaches Dre that kung fu is not about punches and parries, but maturity and calm, Dre realizes that facing down the bullies will be the fight of his life.
Essence
Ensemble
Like The Karate Kid
Nearest across the full emotional profile.
Same Mood as The Karate Kid
Nearest on what's most distinctive about this one.
Like The Karate Kid, But Darker
Similar, pushed toward heavier and more intense.
Like The Karate Kid, But Lighter
Similar, pushed toward warmer and easier.
Like The Karate Kid, But Less Popular
Same territory, far fewer people have seen it.
