Cobra Kai: Brilliant Continuation of Karate Kid

Having just finished watching the third season of Cobra Kai, I’m completely taken aback. I liked The Karate Kid films growing up, but never thought there’d be a continuation that’s just as good, if not better…

The Plot

We begin from the perspective of Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka), the original film’s antagonist. Set 34 years later, the show carefully examines his damaged state; the loss of his job and the disconnect from his son, Robby (Tanner Buchanan). Eventually, he reunites with Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio), the main character from the first three films. In response to his former rival’s career success, Johnny decides to reopen his former dojo, Cobra Kai, with the help of his teenage neighbor, Miguel (Xolo Maridueña). The show also delves into the perspective of Daniel, who takes issue with Johnny’s stunt and reopens Miyagi dojo with the help of his daughter, Sam (Mary Mouser). Further complications arise by the return of Johnny’s former mentor, John Kreese (Martin Kove)

Characters

The most striking aspect of Cobra Kai is its delicate treatment of the characters. I’ve always interpreted the main theme of The Karate Kid to be balance; as presented in Daniel’s strive to use karate not only in self-defense, but also as a means to overcome internal struggles. In the show, all characters are imbued with tremendous flaws and redeeming qualities.

Johnny’s the prime example. I didn’t root for him before, but was immediately hooked into his situation here. Despite his many grudges (and hilarious missteps), it’s clear he’s trying to turn his life around. And the arrival of Miguel is the turning point. As shown throughout the series, Johnny didn’t entirely lose his dark side, but the subtle moments with his student’s family really bring out the humanity in him.

Miguel is another well-rounded character. He’s the new kid in town, struggling to defend himself against bullies in school; very similar to Daniel in the original film. However, I didn’t always root for him. Obviously he wants to do the right thing, both in school and at home with his mother, but some things start to go south once training begins. Even though Johnny becomes a father figure, some of his teachings lead Miguel to make some questionable decisions, especially with regards to Daniel and his dojo.

Speaking of which, Daniel’s lifestyle’s a great contrast to Johnny’s. He’s a successful car salesman (a specific nod to the original film) and a family man; easily the most likable character in the show. Any lapse in judgment is a result either from his former rival’s attempt at sabotage, or from his daughter’s dating life. Daniel’s relationship with Sam is a bit rocky at times; she’s clearly his best student, but he can be a little overprotective. That being said, their karate sessions, even with Robby, do invoke nostalgia for Daniel’s training in the films.

Out of all the newcomers, it’s Johnny’s son who’s the most interesting. Robby grew up resenting his father for not being around, and joins Miyagi dojo out of spite. Though over time, his relationship with the LaRussos develops into something more interesting. He starts to see Daniel as a parent he never had, and his moments with Sam are some of the series’ best. Also, the scenes where they square off against the Cobra Kai have an exciting, Force Awakens-vibe. If there’s anyone, other than Johnny, that rubs Robby the wrong way, it’s Miguel; mainly for his romantic attachment to Sam.

Then there’s John Kreese. Despite him not being the most developed character in the films, Cobra Kai does expands on Kreese in some unexpected ways. We get a glimpse at his past during the Vietnam War through flashbacks; particularly how he learns martial arts, where he derives the name for his future dojo, and his relationship to a significant other back home. This adds many layers to his character in the present time, giving Kreese’s actions a whole new meaning. His manipulation of Johnny (and Robby), is very gripping to watch.

The Absence of Mr. Miyagi

There’re many other exciting characters (as well as cameos), but the last of which I’ll mention is actually not in the show. The late Pat Morita portrayed Daniel’s karate mentor, Mr. Miyagi, in the The Karate Kid films, but his performance was too specific and memorable to be replaced by that of another actor. As a result, his character was written to have died before the events of the first season. I’m glad, however, that his teachings continue to resonate with Daniel; both in the way he instructs his students and seeks to maintain balance within himself. Surprisingly enough, the show manages to expand on Miyagi’s past when Daniel goes to Japan and reconnects with characters from The Karate Kid Part II.

Continuity

It’s well known that the sequels to the original Karate Kid weren’t as revered upon release. The great thing about Cobra Kai is how it expands on Parts II and III (The Next Karate Kid is yet to be referenced), making them stronger and more relevant than before. For example, in the second season, Daniel confronts some of his students, who’re a bit disillusioned with his teachings. He tries to dissuade them from joining the Cobra Kai by referencing his brief attendance in Part III. Clearly he’s ashamed of that memory, and has no choice but to use it when all else fails. In the third season, Daniel travels to Japan on a business trip. He meets up with his rival from Part II, who in spite of their history teaches Daniel’s a little extra about both Mr. Miyagi and karate. This not only brings full closure to a storyline from one of the sequels, but also gives Daniel enough motivation going forward.

Going Forward

If you haven’t seen Cobra Kai, there’s plenty of time to catch up. The fourth season’s currently in production, and according to reports will be released a year from now. If you’ve seen it, what’re your predictions for what’s to come?