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Technically,The Karate Kidis a film franchise, one that consists of four movies and a 2010 remake.
That first film provides the foundation forCobra Kais plot structure, its character motivations, and numerous visual references.
On multiple occasions, scenes from the movie are replayed in their original form in extended flashbacks.
The series plays with that sense of reverence in clever, knowing ways.
But although the series toys with that notion, it never fully embraces it.
(Spoiler alert: Yeah, Johnny Lawrence is still a major-league asshole.)
But even Daniel is still a bit preoccupied by the days he spent learning karate.
But once Johnny re-enters Daniels orbit, old feelings of Cobra Kai resentment are reignited.
Any particular way you want me to wash these windows?
Nah, I dont give a shit, Johnny says, squashing the moment.
Its quite possible thats exactly what they did.
I giveCobra Kaicredit for that.
At the same time, the series comes across as amateurish at times.
The dialogue sometimes sounds unintentionally ridiculous You like Speedwagon?
and the directing and editing style can be a little cheesy.
But sometimes the choices seem more reflective of a low budget and lack of imagination.
Miyagi and, by extension,The Karate Kid advocated for avoiding violence whenever possible.
These contrasts ultimately makeCobra Kaimore complicated and less black-and-white than its source material.
