Even more calculating and manipulative than the original film, “The Karate Kid, Part II” is a disappointing sequel. It is directed by John G. Avildsen from a script by Robert Mark Kamen, who were also the filmmakers of the first one.
Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita re-create the roles that brought them acclaim in the 1984 Karate Kid, for which Morita was nominated for a Supporting Oscar Award. In this story, the Karate student Daniel Larusso (Macchio), accompanies his wise and whimsical teacher, Mr. Miyagi (Morita), to his ancestral home in Okinawa.
For the boy, it’s a journey to an exotic new world offering new clues to his mentor’s secret past. For Miyagi, it’s an opportunity to see his father one last time and to rekindle a romance with his childhood sweetheart (Nobu McCarthy). But Miyagi’s return also re-ignites a bitter feud with long-time enemy, Sato (Danny Kamekona), a feud that involves young Daniel in a brilliant collision of cultures and combat.
Far away from the tournaments, the cheering crowds and the safety of home, Daniel must face his greatest challenge, one in which teacher becomes student and the price of honor is life itself.
Oscar Alert
The film received one Oscar nomination, “Glory of Love,” music by Peter Cetera and David Foster, lyrics by Peter Cetera and Diane Nini.
The winner, however, was “Take My Breath Away,” by Giorgio Moroder and Tom Whitlock, from the Tom Cruise blockbuster, “Top Gun.”
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