The Karate Kid (2010) Review in 2025
A remake of the classic 1984 film, The Karate Kid follows the story of Dre Parker, a young boy who moves to China and learns karate to defend himself against bullies.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Yes, this movie is suitable for families with children, but parental discretion is advised due to some intense fight scenes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching, especially for fans of the original Karate Kid film. It's a fun and action-packed ride, but it's not without its flaws. If you're looking for a light-hearted, family-friendly film, this is a good choice.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
Dre Parker, a 12-year-old boy, moves to China with his mother. He befriends a maintenance worker, Mr. Han, who teaches him karate to help him deal with the local bullies. As Dre trains, he faces off against the ruthless Kung Fu champion, Cheng, and his crew.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and relatable, but it lacks the originality and charm of the 1984 film. The plot is predictable, but the characters' motivations are well-developed.
acting8.50/10
The acting is excellent, with standout performances from Jaden Smith and Taraji P. Henson. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, and the supporting actors add to the overall energy of the film.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and likable, especially Dre Parker, who is played by Jaden Smith. The supporting characters, such as Mr. Han and May, add depth to the story.
direction7.00/10
The direction is solid, but it lacks the flair and style of the original film. The action scenes are well-choreographed, but they feel a bit too formulaic.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful shots of the Chinese countryside and the city. The camera work is smooth and efficient, but it doesn't always add to the emotional impact of the scenes.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Karate Kid is a fun and engaging film with well-developed characters and stunning cinematography. The action scenes are well-choreographed, and the chemistry between the leads is palpable.
Cons
The story is predictable, and the direction lacks the flair and style of the original film. The film also relies too heavily on formulaic action scenes.
Notable Quotes
"'I'm not a bully, I'm just a kid trying to survive!' - Dre Parker"
"'Sweep the leg!' - Mr. Han"
