Wednesday, June 9, 2010

KARATE KIDS, OLD AND NEW UNITE


Seen here at Monday's premiere of The Karate Kid (2010) are the original film's star Ralph Macchio and remake star Jaden Smith together at Mann Village Theatre in Westwood, California.  When the original film was made over 27 years ago, Macchio had no idea the legacy the film would create for itself including its garnering of an Oscar nomination for Asian-American actor Pat Morita for Best Supporting Actor as Mr. Miyagi.  

The first instalment in the franchise went on to make over $90 million at the Box Office, after a weak opening of $5 million in 1984.  Actress Hilary Swank who starred in the third instalment of The Karate Kid, eventually went on to win two Oscars for Best Actress.

When asked about his thoughts on the remake, Macchio explained to Access Hollywood "It’s like mixed feelings. At first, I felt old. Number one, you feel old when they start remaking your stuff".

Despite negative reviews overall for the 2010 remake of the film, it is expected to debut huge this Friday when it opens in wide release.  The film which co-stars the legendary Jackie Chan, whose mentor role as Mr. Han was inspired by that of Mr. Miyagi.  It is one of the few films to have been granted permission to film on-site at the Great Wall of China. It is necessary to clarify though that in China, it's known as Kung Fu, not Karate. Although I was a little iffy about the idea of resurrection of this film, I must say oddly I'm now intrigued.

Visit the film's official website here.

(Photo credit: Getty Images)

No comments:

Post a Comment