Netflix Cobra Kai

 Netflix Cobra Kai

By: Lori Walker Sartain

I have to first say I was 20 years old when Karate Kid came out in 1984 and it was a huge hit.  Everyone fell in love with Ralph Macchio.  He became a big star and we all watched for his next great movie and it never happened.  He did star in a film I enjoyed called Crossroads in 1986 but even though it was good, it didn't get recognition.  They did a part 2 to Karate Kid and it worked, and nothing else ever worked for him.  He even did a Karate Kid III.  I watched it but by then, the story line was old.  So I have been waiting to see him in something worth watching for a while.

When I first saw that Cobra Kai was on Netflix, I snickered.  I thought how are these old guys going to make a Karate movie.  Come on, guys you are old, stop.  But my curiosity and love for the original Karate Kid allowed me to click start on the series one episode.

I was pleasantly surprised after the first episode.  The acting, writing and storyline all made me want to watch more.  The old Karate Kid actors are in their place and the new young "kids" are great.  I don't know if I love it due to nostalgia or the acting but I do love it.

It is a bit violent at times.  I wouldn't let me grand daughter who is 7 watch it.  I love that girls are lead characters that are strong and independent.  The original had all girls/women as passive girlfriends, moms and sideline parts.  There are several women in this series and NONE of them are passive.

William Zabka, that I despised in the originals, I now enjoy watching him and watching his character grow.  He was one dimensional in the originals and now you see his back story and understand more about him.  

Tanner Buchanan, watch for this guy.  He is going to be a huge star.  He has it all, looks, acting skills and timing.  Ever since he was introduced, I watch for him in all the scenes.  Xolo Mariduena also does a great job and I know the young girls like them both.

Courtney Henggeler, Mary Mouser and Peyton List are all great actors and three of my favorite female characters.  Cudos to the writers.  

The story line is predictable but the action makes up for it.  The violence is over the top but it is about Karate.  The enemies are great and we miss Mr. Miyagi but if you were a Karate Kid fan, you will enjoy this series.  For everyone else, I am really not sure as I still don't know if I enjoy this because it reminds me of my youth or if it is something everyone would enjoy.  It is worth checking out.

I give Cobra Kai 4 Red Hots