Released in 2015, the film emphasizes the transformative power of martial arts training within a coming-of-age narrative.
Its clear from the title alone thatThe Martial Arts Kidowed its existence to the undeniable legacy ofThe Karate Kid.
In fact,3 Ninjaswas the most successful movie of 1992in terms of cost-to-gross ratio.
The villains seen inShowdownare essentially Johnny Lawrence, John Kreese, and Terry Silver, all wrapped into one.
Released in 1994, the film intertwines mystery and martial arts.
With a Cobra Kai-esque competing dojo,Feldman essentially played Johnny Lawrence in this forgotten release.
Movies like this can feel disingenuous as it squanders any opportunity to carve out its own identity.
Kickboxing Academywas also released under the titleTeen Boxerand borrowed heavily fromThe Karate Kid.
Taking all this together, its impossible not to notice the similarities between the two properties.
The Martial Arts Kid follows a troubled teen from Cleveland who moves to Cocoa Beach and learns martial arts to build confidence and defend himself against bullies. Released in 2015, the film emphasizes the transformative power of martial arts training within a coming-of-age narrative.
3 Ninjas follows the adventures of brothers Samuel, Jeffrey, and Michael Douglas as they spend their summer with their grandfather, a skilled martial artist. Trained in martial arts and ninjutsu, the brothers join forces to combat an organized crime ring, using their skills to thwart determined kidnappers.
Best of the Best is a 1989 martial arts film focusing on a United States Tae Kwon Do team competing against Korea. Directed by Robert Radler, the narrative centers on diverse fighters overcoming personal rivalries to unite as a cohesive team and challenge their skilled international opponents.
Showdown, released in 1993, features Ken, a new student who learns karate from a school janitor with a secret past. After being targeted by a possessive bully with a skilled instructor, Ken must face intense confrontations between students and martial arts experts, highlighting themes of rivalry and personal growth.
A Dangerous Place follows Ethan, who investigates his brother Greg’s death, initially ruled a suicide. Suspecting foul play linked to Greg’s martial arts team, the Scorpions, Ethan leverages his own martial arts skills to infiltrate the group and uncover the truth. Released in 1994, the film intertwines mystery and martial arts.
Kickboxing Academy follows a young former kickboxer who, haunted by past experiences, is called upon to help his school in a crucial tournament against a rival institution. As he grapples with his fears, the competition’s outcome will determine the future of his school and ultimately test his resolve.
Karate Warrior is a 1987 martial arts film featuring Anthony, a young man visiting the Philippines, who clashes with a local gangster and champion karate fighter, Quino.
Never Back Down follows Jake, a troubled teenager who encounters an underground MMA fight club at his new high school in Orlando. After a defeat by club leader Ryan, Jake seeks mentorship from a seasoned MMA trainer to transform his anger and skills, setting the stage for an inevitable rematch.
No Retreat, No Surrender is a martial arts film centered on young Jason Stillwell, who relocates to Seattle and faces bullying. Seeking resilience, Jason trains in martial arts, ultimately challenging Ivan, a formidable Russian champion, in an international match.
Sidekicks is a 1992 action-comedy directed by Aaron Norris, starring Chuck Norris and Jonathan Brandis. The film follows a bullied teenager who escapes his troubles through a vivid fantasy life where he is the sidekick of martial arts hero Chuck Norris. With the help of his martial arts teacher, he strives to turn his fantasies into reality, building self-confidence and physical strength along the way.
