The first stills of the film “The New Dragon Wei Boy” have been revealed. Directed by Jonathan Entwistle (“Fuck the world”) and written by Rob Lebow (“Peter Rabbit”, “Goosebumps 2”), this movie sees the return of acting legends Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio in starring roles. Wang Ben (“Journey to the West ABC”) takes on a lead role, while Mingina Wen, Sadie Stanley, and Joshua Jackson also make appearances.
Jackie Chan will reprise his role as Mr. Han from 2010’s “The Karate Kid”, and Ralph Macchio will once again play Daniel Larusso. Previously, the two had searched among thousands of young actors across the globe for the new “Longwei Kid”. Wang Ben stood out with his outstanding performance and a profound understanding of the role. Proficient in a variety of martial arts including karate, Wing Chun/kung fu, Kendo, boxing, and taekwondo, he gained fame in the American TV series “Journey to the West ABC” alongside Michelle Yeoh and Daniel Wu.
This marks the second remake of the “Dragon Way Boy” IP in Hollywood. Back in 1984, the action film “The Dragon Way Kid” was released, telling the story of New Jersey teenager Daniel (Ralph Macchio) and apartment maintenance worker Miyagi, who engaged in karate exchanges and learning. Over two months, Miyagi imparted to Daniel the true essence of karate and numerous techniques, enabling him to defeat Johnny in a showdown. Two sequels followed this initial installment.
In 2010, Jaden Smith, the son of Jackie Chan and Will Smith, starred in a remake of “The Karate Kid”. Set in China, it followed a child named Parker who moved to China with his mother. There, he encountered repairman Mr. Han, who taught him the skills and many truths of kung fu. Eventually, Parker triumphed over his opponent in the martial arts competition.
It’s reported that “The New Dragon Wei Boy” will continue the legacy of “The Karate Kid”. The production team has stated that it will “return to the origin of the ‘Karate Kid'”, with the story shifting to the East Coast of the United States. It will focus on a child from China who learns from a tough yet wise elder. The film is slated for release on May 30, 2025.
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