Compiling the first two films in the iconic The Karate Kid series—both directed by John G. Avildsen—the 1984 opener stars Ralph Macchio as Daniel LaRusso, a much put-upon high school outcast who finds a father figure and mentor in Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita), the mysterious handyman with the unorthodox teaching methods ("Wax on, wax off"). The inevitable 1986 sequel, The Karate Kid II, further fleshes out their relationship as Daniel accompanies Miyagi to Japan, where the latter will have to settle old scores. Macchio, forever typecast by the series, is charming as Daniel, while Norita's Mr. Miyagi remains one of the silver screen's great characters, dispensing ancient wisdom like Yoda and kicking butt like Billy Jack. Making their first appearance on Blu-ray, The Karate Kid and The Karate Kid II both sport solid transfers, with the lion's share of the extras appearing on the first film, including audio commentary (by Avildsen, writer Robert Mark Kamen, and Macchio and Morita), a “making-of” featurette, a trio of production featurettes (on topics ranging from bonsai to Bill Conti's score), and a pop-up trivia track. The Karate Kid II includes a “making-of” featurette and a pop-up trivia track. Recommended. (D. Liebenson)
This titled is included in our list of inspiring movies for teachers.