Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio to reunite in new Karate Kid movie
Cobra Kai and Karate Kid fans, rejoice - Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio are set to reunite in a new film.
In the new movie, which is set for release next year, Macchio will reprise his role as Daniel LaRusso, while Chan is making a comeback as Mr. Han, the formidable kung fu master who helped Jaden Smith fend off bullies in the 2010 remake of the classic.
As you'd probably expect, Sony is keeping story details firmly under wraps ahead of a December 13 2024 release date, though sources close to the production told Deadline the plot will be a continuation of the mythology of the classic film and its decidedly less beloved sequels.
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Presumably it will also continue the story of Netflix's Cobra Kai, widely considered to be a return to form for the franchise.
With the show's next series confirmed to be its last, there's a good chance the action on the small screen may lead directly into the new film.
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Jonathan Entwistle, best known for The End of the F**king World, will direct the new Karate Kid movie, while script will be provided by Rob Lieber.
It was of course Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio who made the announcement for a new Karate Kid on Tuesday, and the details they revealed suggests how early on in development the new move is.
And, if you fancy yourself a bit of a martial arts whizz with acting chops to match, they had some good news.
In the short clip uploaded to Sony Pictures Entertainment's social channels, Chan and Macchio launched a global casting search for a brand new karate kid to lead the new franchise into a new era.
They invited young actors to submit audition tapes to KarateKidCasting.com, with the chance to become the new lead on the cards.
The website states they are 'looking for an actor to portray Chinese or Mixed-Race Chinese and between 15-17 years old'.
It adds: "He speaks fluent English. Conversational Mandarin is a strong plus. He's smart, scrappy and a skilled martial artist."
While acting experience is 'preferred' for any successful candidate, the website says this is not a required asset of anyone applying.
Hopefuls with martial arts, gymnastics and/or dance experience will also be at an advantage.
The callout states that any individual who applies must be available between March and June 2024.
While Karate Kid may be an aging franchise at this point, Netflix's Cobra Kai has certainly brought new fans into the series in recent years.
Speaking to People in 2021, Macchio spoke on how different generations of fans have reacted to Karate Kid following the release of Cobra Kai.
He said: "Kids see the show and then tell their parents, 'Hey, you should check this out. It's really cool'.
"To go through the ebbs and flows of popularity for 36-plus years and now be in a place where parents, kids and even grandparents are sharing the same excitement is really special."
Topics: Film and TV
Callum Jones