Cobra Kai

Details: Cast: William Zabka, Ralph Macchio, Xolo Mariduena, Mary Mouser

Rating: TV-14

Premiere Date: May 2, 2018

Pros: As a kid, I loved the Karate Kid movies. Even though they were made way before I was born, I couldn't help but enjoy the fight scenes and the classic underdog story. When I heard that Youtube TV was making a show from the perspective of Johnny Lawrence, one of the most iconic "villains" in the 80s, I was hyped. Then when Netflix picked up the show, I was even more excited to watch it. Since Season 1, Cobra Kai has managed to craft a story that everyone can appreciate. Whether you're a fan of the original movies, or just started tuning in, there is enough for everybody to enjoy. One of the show's greatest strengths is its characters. From episode one, you are re-introduced to Johnny Lawrence who isn't doing so great 20 years after the events of the first Karate Kid. Instantly, the show helps the audience sympathize with this supposed villain, as we understand his point of view. He takes Xolo's character, Miguel, under his wing and a friendship is created that will last for the entirety of the show. The arc that every character goes through is one that keeps the audience rooting for the characters. You see Johnny slowly learning to put away his pride and care for other people and himself. Miguel goes from a nerdy, shy kid, to a karate champion. Even the "protagonist" from The Karate Kid, Daniel LaRusso himself goes through an arc of being a pompous, hotheaded car salesman to a calm, caring father and sensei. Almost every character in the show has multiple layers to them. Other than the antagonist of Season 2 and 3, John Kreese, you cannot characterize any character as necessarily good or evil as there are multiple sides to every story. These characters carry the plot throughout the 3 seasons. The showrunners create a story that is truly compelling and interesting. While it is definitely cheesy, the show seems to be self-aware about that fact and never overdoes it. Since this is a show about karate, one of the most important aspects is the fighting. Cobra Kai does an excellent job in creating fight sequences that tell a story. The finale of Season 2 crafted an amazing brawl that takes place at the high-school which was also filmed as a oner. Finally, the writing in the show is filled with funny one-liners and depth which helps the audience sympathize with the characters even more, and create an environment that pulls the viewers into the world Cobra Kai has built.

Cons: While I did say that the show has a good plot, sometimes the pacing feels a bit off. There are times where the show dragged for me. This was primarily during the first season but since Netflix picked it up, they created shorter seasons with shorter run times which amended this problem. Additionally, the writing towards Season 3 can sometimes feel a bit too campy but this only happens once or twice and doesn't ever really take away from the story. Finally, the acting can sometimes feel forced during emotional scenes but Season 3 definitely fixes this problem.

Star Rating: 9/10

Final Thoughts: With a strong cast, compelling plot, solid writing, and great action sequences, Cobra Kai has a little bit for everybody to enjoy and is definitely worth the watch.