KEEP IT OLDSKOOL MOVIE OF THE WEEK

 

 

The Karate Kid was released in 1984. This movie fits the genre as a “crowd pleaser” meaning that we watch the characters go through turmoil to only to see them prevail in the end. This movie starred Ralph Macchio, Noriyuki “Pat” Morita and Elizabeth Shue. The movie resonated with all of the kids that were picked on or felt out of place. Also It was a classic “uptown girl with boy from other side of the tracks love story”

The movie centered on Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) leaving his east coast surroundings as a high school senior and moving to LA. He immediately feels out of place. He is of course bullied and believes that he needs to learn karate to help the bullying he is getting by Johnny (William Zabka) and his friends. In comes the kindly old janitor Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita) who is withdrawn but notices “Danielson’s” situation and reluctantly decides to help and train Daniel. We also meet Ali (Elizabeth Shue) who happens to be the former girlfriend of the guy who is  tormenting Daniel. Daniel believes that a rich girl like her would not bother with a guy like him.

 

 We watch as Mr. Miyagi uses unorthodox training methods (‘wax on wax off and “sand the floor”)  that Daniel doesn’t seem to get. As they get to know each other better they become more than just student and teacher. The movie builds to a climax with Daniel entering the All Valley Under 18 Karate Tournament and having to face Johnny and the other students of the Cobra Kai karate school lead by John Kreese (Martin Kove). This movie still stands up against the 3 sequels and a 2010 remake. If you have seen this movie watch it again. If you haven’t pick it up and show it to a son,daughter,nephew or niece.

 

 

 

KEEP IT OLDSKOOL