The Karate Kid

The Karate Kid

Release Date

1984

Director

  • John G. Avildsen

Cast

  • Noriyuki "Pat" Morita
  • Ralph Macchio
  • Elisabeth Shue

A handyman/martial arts master agrees to teach a bullied boy karate, and shows him that there is more to the martial art than fighting.

Daniel (Ralph Macchio) moves to Southern California with his mother, Lucille (Randee Heller), but quickly finds himself the target of a group of bullies who study karate at the Cobra Kai dojo. Fortunately, Daniel befriends Mr. Miyagi (Noriyuki "Pat" Morita), an unassuming repairman who just happens to be a martial arts master himself. Miyagi takes Daniel under his wing, training him in a more compassionate form of karate and preparing him to compete against the brutal Cobra Kai. The film garnered critical acclaim, and earned Pat Morita an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. The film became the first in a series, spawning three sequels and a remake in 2010.

Past Programs

2012

The Epidemic of Bullying

Maiden Alley Cinema, Paducah, KY

2017

Feats of Strength

Juneau Underground Motion Picture Society and Gold Town Theater, Juneau, AK