Classics: A Review of Cobra Kai By Lauren Ennis

With a final infamous crane kick The Karate Kid concluded one of the great underdog stories and a cinema legend was born. The franchise then went on to follow its unlikely hero, Daniel Larusso, as he faced enemies both at home and abroad to become "the best around". In 2018 the franchise returned to follow an arguably even more unlikely hero; The Karate Kid's original villain, Johnny Lawrence. In the hit series Cobra Kai Johnny returns to reclaim his place both on and off of the mat and turns out some of the most surprisingly compelling television in recent memory along the way. 

No mercy

The story begins thirty-five years after Daniel defeated Johnny in the All-Valley Under Eighteen Karate Tournament with the two effectively switching roles. Former underdog Daniel is now an all around success enjoying a happy family life while owning a profitable chain of car dealerships. Johnny, meanwhile, has taken the opposite trajectory and is now divorced, estranged from his son, and reduced to working odd jobs to make ends meet. When bullied teen Miguel moves into Johnny's apartment complex history repeats itself and before you can say 'wax on, wax off' Johnny becomes the boy's sensei and reopens his old dojo, Cobra Kai. Old rivalries are reignited when Johnny crosses paths with Daniel who has (unknowingly) begun training Johnny's estranged son, Robby. After the two face off in an all too familiar tournament at the end of season one the second season adds even more drama as Daniel opens his own dojo and the senseis' bitter rivalry carries down to their students. By the second season's conclusion the past and present collide in a stunning finale that leaves the future of Johnny, Daniel, and their dojos hanging in the balance and is certain to leave viewers begging for more.

Through its combination of heart, humor, and action Cobra Kai kicks the competition. The series successfully strikes a balance between paying apt homage to the original films and building an original story. Rather than merely acting as a nostalgic rehash of the franchise the series instead adds depth and nuance to returning characters while introducing plenty of fresh faces. The series particularly succeeds in adding shades of grey to the black and white characterizations in the original films, enabling the series to function equally well as a character study and a sports drama. Best of all, the series invests in each of its characters in a way that ensures that viewers will remain on the edge of their seats as they watch each of its diverse plot lines unfold. Even as the script delves into domestic and sports drama the series uses its cross-generational tale to highlight and poke fun at the norms of both the 1980's and today with uproarious results. In this way the series ensures that the proceedings never veer into melodrama and that its story has something to offer the entire family. Striking an ideal balance between comedy, and drama Cobra Kai offers something for Gen X, Gen Z, and everyone in between for some of the best viewing around. 

Balance is key

The world of The Karate Kid is brilliantly revived thanks to the butt-kicking performances of the series' ensemble cast. Newcomer Xolo Mariduena makes for a welcome addition to the franchise as he expertly portrays Miguel's journey from bullied underdog to conflicted Cobra Kai champion. Similarly, Tanner Buchanan aptly depicts bad-boy Robby's efforts to reinvent himself under Daniel's guidance. Mary Mouser conveys infectious charm as Daniel's daughter and the object of both Miguel and Robby's affections, Samantha. Peyton List captures each scene in which she appears as Samantha's magnetic rival in karate and romance, Tory. Martin Kove seamlessly returns to his role as John Kreese, and recaptures his performance as the original bad sensei in all of its smarmy, sinister, glory. Even in the midst of impressive ensemble performances, however, the series undoubtedly belongs to William Zabka and Ralph Macchio as they brilliantly reprise their roles as rivals Johnny and Daniel. Zabka infuses Johnny with a world weariness, earnestness, and humor that is certain to leave viewers rooting for the former bully. Similarly, Macchio's performance showcases new dimensions and complexity as he aptly portrays Daniel's struggle to reconcile his past and present.

Even as its heroes struggle to find their inner balance Cobra Kai strikes an ideal balance between laughs, cheers, and even the occasional tear. At once refreshingly original and warmly nostalgic the series relates a unique tale that perfectly completes The Karate Kid franchise. Through its endlessly entertaining script and enormously engaging performances the series provides just the kick that audiences have been waiting for. For a true knockout of a series start training with Cobra Kai.