Review of The Next Karate Kid (1994) by Patrick L — 12 Oct 2010

An interesting installment, devised as a way by the producers to revive the franchise. Although not a box office success, it's at least superior to the third one. It's dumb and somewhat corny, but it's all in good fun.

Noriyuki "Pat" Morita does well as his father figure as always while Hilary Swank makes an assured debut as 'The Next Karate Kid', in the form of a troubled, orphaned teen who undergoes a life-changing experience with the help of Miyagi and some of his friends.

Sweet, deep, inspiring, it's also amusing and has the occasional action scene. It's kinda disappointing that Daniel LaRusso didn't return in his older, wiser, less irritating self, the tone is the most uneven when it comes to all of the movies, and the music isn't quite as effective here.

But the move to Boston is nice and the beginning of the film keeps in continuity with Miyagi's character. You gotta admit, at least it's not too girly, despite there being a prom instead of a tournament, as Swank is a tough tomboy who can kick some ass.

All in all, it's a nice way to close off a series (that should've ended with just 2), and it might make KK fans forget about Part 3.