Review of The Karate Kid Part II (1986)

The Karate Kid Part II (1986), directed by John G. Avildsen, is the first sequel to the immensely popular 1984 film The Karate Kid, which introduced audiences to the relationship between a young, bullied teenager, Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio), and his wise and patient mentor, Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita). While The Karate Kid centered on Daniel’s journey from underdog to martial arts champion, The Karate Kid Part II expands on that story, taking Daniel and Mr. Miyagi to Okinawa, Japan, and deepening the exploration of martial arts, honor, and personal growth. Although the sequel is often viewed as a classic in its own right, it is also a film that builds upon the emotional and narrative groundwork laid by the original, offering both new challenges and deepening its central themes.

Plot and Structure

The film opens shortly after the events of The Karate Kid. Daniel has triumphed at the All-Valley Karate Tournament, but his victory has led to new tensions, particularly with Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka), his former rival. However, when Mr. Miyagi receives a letter informing him that his father is ill in Okinawa, he decides to return to his homeland. Daniel, eager for adventure and wanting to repay Mr. Miyagi for all he has done for him, accompanies his mentor to Okinawa.

Upon arriving in Okinawa, Daniel is introduced to Mr. Miyagi’s past, including the cultural significance of his martial arts training. Miyagi’s childhood nemesis, Chozen Toguchi (Yuji Okumoto), now an adult, has become a key figure in Okinawa’s community and is a skilled martial artist. Chozen represents the harsh, pride-driven martial arts philosophy that contrasts sharply with Mr. Miyagi’s own teachings of balance and humility. This sets the stage for a personal and physical confrontation between the two men, which ultimately draws Daniel into a battle of his own.

The plot intertwines two central narratives. The first follows Mr. Miyagi as he confronts his past, specifically his troubled relationship with his father and his ties to Okinawa. The second focuses on Daniel’s journey to understand the deeper principles of karate, moving beyond just physical combat and into the realm of personal responsibility, peace, and respect. As the stakes rise, the film culminates in a climactic fight between Daniel and Chozen, a duel that is less about physical prowess and more about the philosophical battle between martial arts as a means of personal development and a means of prideful aggression.

Themes: Honor, Growth, and Cultural Identity

The Karate Kid Part II builds significantly on the themes of honor and personal growth that were introduced in the first film, and it delves more deeply into the cultural and philosophical aspects of martial arts. Mr. Miyagi’s teachings were grounded in the idea that martial arts is not simply about physical skill but about balance, peace, and humility. This lesson is carried forward in the sequel, particularly as Daniel begins to understand that karate is not about defeating others but about defeating one’s own pride and ego.

In Okinawa, Daniel is exposed to a very different philosophy of martial arts, one that is driven by pride and vengeance. Chozen’s approach to karate contrasts sharply with Miyagi’s, as Chozen uses his martial prowess to intimidate and control, whereas Mr. Miyagi teaches that true strength lies in self-control and compassion. The philosophical clash between these two martial arts styles provides the film with much of its emotional tension. Daniel, who was once motivated by proving himself and winning at all costs, is now faced with the idea that karate is about something much greater: self-discipline, respect, and humility.

The film also explores the theme of cultural identity. Mr. Miyagi’s return to Okinawa is not just a personal journey; it is also a reconnection to his roots. As Daniel accompanies him, he too learns about the cultural significance of Okinawa and martial arts in Miyagi’s life. The exploration of Okinawan traditions and customs adds a layer of depth to the film, making it more than just a typical martial arts movie. This is further illustrated by the spiritual significance of the bonsai tree, a recurring motif in the film, symbolizing growth, patience, and harmony with nature.

Another key theme in The Karate Kid Part II is the continuation of the mentor-student relationship between Daniel and Mr. Miyagi. In the first film, Daniel learned from Miyagi how to fight, but in the sequel, he learns how to live. Mr. Miyagi is not just teaching Daniel karate—he’s teaching him how to be a man, how to approach life with integrity, and how to find peace within himself.

Performances and Character Development

At the heart of The Karate Kid Part II are the performances of Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita, whose on-screen chemistry remains one of the film’s greatest strengths. Macchio’s portrayal of Daniel LaRusso deepens in this film, as Daniel is no longer the brash teenager trying to fit in; he’s now a young man who has begun to grasp the deeper meanings of Mr. Miyagi’s teachings. The character arc is evident as Daniel matures, learning not only about karate but about self-restraint and responsibility. Macchio balances Daniel’s youthful exuberance with a more reflective and serious side, portraying a character who is no longer merely trying to prove himself but is starting to understand the importance of inner peace.

Pat Morita’s performance as Mr. Miyagi is even more layered in the sequel. In the first film, Miyagi was a somewhat mysterious figure, a mentor who embodied wisdom and patience. In The Karate Kid Part II, the audience gets to see more of his backstory and his personal struggles. The death of his father and the complicated relationship he has with his past provide new emotional depth to the character. Morita’s portrayal of Miyagi is sensitive and nuanced, showing a man who has lived through pain and loss but who still embodies grace, wisdom, and kindness.

Yuji Okumoto, who plays Chozen, is an effective antagonist. Chozen is not a simple villain but a complex character driven by his own personal sense of pride and tradition. His animosity toward Mr. Miyagi is rooted in their shared past, and Chozen’s behavior represents the darker side of martial arts—the pursuit of power and revenge over peace and personal growth. Okumoto gives Chozen a menacing intensity that makes the character a believable rival to Mr. Miyagi, and his rivalry with Daniel adds an emotional urgency to the film’s conflict.

Supporting characters, including Kumiko (played by Tamlyn Tomita), Daniel’s romantic interest in Okinawa, also add emotional depth to the film. Kumiko represents a connection to a new world for Daniel, both in terms of culture and personal growth. Their relationship provides a much-needed emotional anchor for Daniel as he navigates the tension between his old life in America and his new life in Okinawa.

Cinematography and Direction

John G. Avildsen’s direction in The Karate Kid Part II maintains the same sense of heart and authenticity that made the first film so successful. The cinematography, by James Crabe, captures the beauty and ruggedness of Okinawa, highlighting the contrast between the tranquil beauty of the island and the intense personal struggles that take place on its soil. The lush landscapes, ancient temples, and rural settings provide a sense of serenity, which contrasts sharply with the film’s more intense martial arts sequences.

The film’s fight choreography is also an improvement over the original, with a number of exciting and well-staged action sequences that build tension while emphasizing the philosophical and emotional stakes of the story. The final confrontation between Daniel and Chozen is not just a physical battle; it is a test of character, a symbolic moment where Daniel must prove that he has truly learned the lessons of Mr. Miyagi’s teachings.

Avildsen wisely keeps the pacing deliberate, allowing the emotional and philosophical stakes of the film to develop gradually. Unlike the first film, which was more focused on Daniel’s underdog story, The Karate Kid Part II is more introspective and meditative, allowing the characters to reflect on their personal growth. The direction emphasizes character development over spectacle, making the action sequences meaningful rather than gratuitous.

Music and Soundtrack

The music in The Karate Kid Part II continues the legacy of the original film, with Bill Conti returning to compose the score. The film’s soundtrack is filled with uplifting and emotive music that complements the themes of growth and transformation. The iconic “You’re the Best” from the first film is replaced with a more subdued but equally memorable score that helps to evoke the sense of a journey, both physical and emotional.

The song “The Glory of Love,” performed by Peter Cetera, became a hit and is often associated with the film. It underscores the film’s themes of honor, perseverance, and love, encapsulating the emotional tone of Daniel’s relationship with Kumiko and his growth as a person.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

The Karate Kid Part II was a commercial success, grossing over $115 million worldwide against a budget of $13 million. While it may not have had the same cultural impact as the first film, it remains a beloved sequel that expanded on the themes and characters established in the original. The film’s exploration of Okinawan culture, its deeper philosophical approach to martial arts, and its focus on character growth helped it stand out as a sequel that wasn’t simply a rehash of the first movie.

The sequel also continued the story of Mr. Miyagi, a character who became a cultural icon, largely due to Pat Morita’s endearing performance. The lessons of the film—about humility, honor, and the importance of self-discipline—continue to resonate with audiences today, making The Karate Kid Part II an enduring classic.

Conclusion

The Karate Kid Part II (1986) is a worthy sequel that builds upon the emotional and thematic foundations of its predecessor. With its exploration of Okinawan culture, its deeper dive into the philosophies of martial arts, and its focus on the growth and development of both Daniel and Mr. Miyagi, the film offers a compelling narrative that goes beyond mere action. The performances of Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita elevate the material, and the film’s exploration of honor, pride, and personal growth makes it more than just a typical martial arts movie. While it may not have the same level of iconic status as the original, The Karate Kid Part II remains a touching, philosophical, and engaging continuation of Daniel and Mr. Miyagi’s journey.