Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith star in this modern remake of the classic martial arts film about a young boy who learns kung fu in order to stand up for himself.
Smith plays Dre Parker, a displaced American boy who has to move to China with his mother when she gets a new job. Lonely in this strange land, Dre’s attempts to assimilate himself within this foreign culture go very much punished, after he catches the attention of a local bully and his gang of fighting friends. During one savage pursuit by the gang, Dre is saved by the heroics of the janitor Mr Han (Chan), whose expert use of martial arts is more than enough to combat this group of hostile youths.
Han agrees to teach Dre kung fu in order for him to prove himself against the bullies, and avoid further beatings. In order for Dre to make a big enough impression, he must take part in a tournament, where he will go face to face with his attackers, as well as other competitors, in a battle of martial arts.
Having never seen the original Karate Kid (I know, shock horror), I went into this film with low expectations. Modern remakes of cult classics seem to have an instant weight attached to them, making them slow off the mark, and unlikely to impress. However, this film has an appealing element to it, in particular in the way that it is shot. The scenes are beautifully coloured, with some amazing use of the local scenery, which give the overall aesthetic an authentic feel.
The acting is what you would expect from a kids movie. However, it is important to note that young Smith pulls his weight during the film, and is one to look out for in future roles (arguably, he outdoes Chan - which is a minor achievement).
Aimed at a younger audience, this film takes the underdog story and hurls it at us like a Chinese throwing star, but if you can get past the nauseating sensitivity, there is a well made film there - I just wish there was a bit more fighting.
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