All 6 ‘Karate Kid’ Movies, Ranked

The ‘Karate Kid’ franchise has been a cornerstone of martial arts storytelling since the 1980s, blending heartfelt coming-of-age tales with high-energy fight scenes. With six films spanning decades, the series has evolved from a scrappy underdog story to a global phenomenon, inspiring TV shows, games, and even a Broadway musical.

Each movie brings something unique, whether it’s a new setting, a fresh face, or a twist on the classic mentor-student dynamic. I’ve ranked all six films, starting with the weakest and ending with the one that started it all, based on their impact, storytelling, and lasting appeal.

6. The Next Karate Kid

Released in 1994, ‘The Next Karate Kid’ shifts gears by introducing Julie Pierce, played by a young Hilary Swank, as Mr. Miyagi’s new student. Set in Boston, the story follows Julie, a troubled teen grappling with her parents’ death, as Miyagi helps her channel her anger through martial arts. The film swaps the original’s California vibe for a new setting and a female lead, but it struggles to capture the same magic.

The absence of Ralph Macchio’s Daniel LaRusso leaves a noticeable gap, and the plot feels like a retread of familiar beats without the same heart. Swank shines in her breakout role, but the villains, led by Michael Ironside’s menacing Col. Paul Duga, lack the menace of earlier antagonists. It’s a bold attempt to refresh the series, but it falls short of the emotional depth we love in the franchise.

5. The Karate Kid Part III

Hitting theaters in 1989, ‘The Karate Kid Part III’ brings Daniel LaRusso back to Los Angeles after his Okinawa adventure. This time, he faces a vengeful John Kreese and his scheming friend Terry Silver, who aim to destroy Daniel’s life and revive Cobra Kai. The stakes feel forced, and Daniel’s choices often come off as frustratingly irrational.

Ralph Macchio, now pushing 30, seems out of place as a teen, and the story leans heavily on repeating the original’s formula without the same spark. Thomas Ian Griffith’s over-the-top performance as Silver is a highlight, but the film’s predictable ending and lack of fresh ideas make it a weaker entry. It’s watchable, but it doesn’t live up to its predecessors.

4. Karate Kid: Legends

‘Karate Kid: Legends’, released in 2025, unites two worlds by bringing back Jackie Chan as Mr. Han and Ralph Macchio as Daniel LaRusso. The story follows Li Fong, played by Ben Wang, a kung fu prodigy who moves from Beijing to New York and enters a high-stakes karate tournament. The blend of kung fu and Miyagi-Do karate creates thrilling fight scenes.

While the film leans on familiar tropes like bullies and big tournaments, Wang’s emotional performance as Li adds depth. The chemistry between Chan and Macchio is a treat, but a rushed subplot about local thugs feels out of place. It’s a fun, nostalgic ride that connects the 2010 remake to the original trilogy, even if it doesn’t break new ground.

3. The Karate Kid (2010)

The 2010 remake, ‘The Karate Kid’, takes the story to Beijing, where Jaden Smith plays Dre Parker, a 12-year-old facing bullies after moving from Detroit. Jackie Chan’s Mr. Han, a kung fu master, steps in as his mentor, teaching him to stand up to his foes. Despite the title, the focus on kung fu over karate gives it a distinct flavor.

Smith and Chan share a strong bond, and the Chinese setting adds a fresh cultural backdrop. The action is well-choreographed, though the younger cast makes the stakes feel less intense than the original. It’s a solid reimagining that respects the franchise’s roots while carving its own path, earning praise for its heart and visuals.

2. The Karate Kid Part II

Released in 1986, ‘The Karate Kid Part II’ takes Daniel and Mr. Miyagi to Okinawa, Japan, where Miyagi confronts his past, including an old rival, Sato, and a lost love, Yukie. Daniel, played by Ralph Macchio, faces his own challenges, romancing Kumiko and clashing with Sato’s nephew, Chozen. The exotic setting, filmed in Oahu, adds a stunning backdrop.

The film deepens Miyagi’s character, revealing his history and emotional weight, while the action ramps up with a dramatic fight-to-the-death climax. Though it lacks the first film’s polish, the new characters and higher stakes make it a worthy sequel that expands the franchise’s heart and scope.

1. The Karate Kid

The 1984 classic, ‘The Karate Kid’, remains the gold standard. Ralph Macchio stars as Daniel LaRusso, a New Jersey teen who moves to Los Angeles and faces bullying from Cobra Kai’s Johnny Lawrence. Pat Morita’s Mr. Miyagi becomes his mentor, teaching him karate and life lessons through iconic methods like ‘wax on, wax off’. The story’s simplicity is its strength.

The bond between Daniel and Miyagi is the heart of the film, blending humor, wisdom, and heartwarming moments. With a thrilling tournament climax and unforgettable characters, it’s no surprise this film sparked a franchise and remains a beloved underdog tale 40 years later.