Writing about popular culture is a little outside the intended purpose of this website, but as I sit here in my new “Miyagi-Do Karate” sweatshirt (a Christmas gift), I feel compelled to add my (unsolicited) thoughts on the subject. I am a huge fan of both the original “Karate Kid” movies and the newer “Cobra Kai” series. Let’s be honest though—I am not a movie critic; I just know what I like. I’m excited for the upcoming “Karate Kid” movie, and I have very much enjoyed watching all the “Cobra Kai” episodes. Maybe you will (or have) too? Here are my thoughts on the subject.
Nostalgia for the Win
While the “Cobra Kai” series has been nominated for numerous awards (and received several of them as well), I personally don’t think it is the acting, writing, or effects that make this series work. It is the nostalgia. Like so many others back in my (much) younger days, I loved watching the “Karate Kid.” I loved cheering for Daniel, the underdog, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of connection and hope from the deep bond that formed between him and Mr. Miyagi. As an idealistic pre-teen, I was angered by the lack of ethics on display by the Cobra Kai dojo, AND I really enjoyed dreaming about conquering all my enemies—all I had to do was diligently “wax on and wax off.” By bringing back all those connections that are so deeply related to my childhood, using many of the very same actors and actresses no less, watching gave me a sense of being young again.
The Flashback Scenes are Brilliant
Today as a much (ahem) older fan, the first time the producers used a flashback scene in the “Cobra Kai” series, I couldn’t stop smiling. I thought it was brilliant. In fact, I went around for days telling everyone who would stop and listen for a minute how well it was done and asking why, oh why, don’t movie producers do more of that? I still think it’s brilliant. It makes the series work. I realize this is not a new concept, as there are “Easter eggs” found in most franchises; however, in the “Cobra Kai” series, they are not hidden nor covert. The flashbacks are very intentional and obvious, and they allowed me to feel a connection with my younger self, yet I could still relate as a much older (and wiser, of course) parent. The experience was personal—I revisited cherished moments, while at the same time somehow making new ones. These flashbacks motivated me to show all the “Karate Kid” movies to my children, which would likely not have happened otherwise. I wanted my kids to see what I saw and feel what I felt. Again, I say, brilliant! Of course, not everyone agrees with me. The folks at Screenrant.com say the use of constant flashbacks “shows a disconnect between the producers and the audience.” Well, they’re wrong, and that’s that. If anything, the flashbacks helped immerse me in the story more fully. My past and the past of the new characters are now connected. I just love it.
As for the Karate Moves
Well, let’s just say no one is going to become a champion simply by adopting a mohawk or overcoming bullies. Like most shows that include martial arts, reality is something far different. That’s okay. I’m still going to watch it. I’m curious what you all think. Feel free to leave a comment.