The Karate Kid

Synopsis

This high-energy remake of the 80s classic follows a 12-year-old American boy starting out in his new home of China. With only his widowed mother for support, the alienated Dre (a suitably charismatic Jaden Smith) becomes a target for school bullies. Caring caretaker Mr Han (Jackie Chan) - who handily doubles as a martial arts master embarks with the boy on an endearingly familiar coming-of-age journey. Chan's portrayal of Mr Han a character haunted by past pains and reborn by his new student provides a pleasingly intimate aside to the many pulsating action sequences and epic landscapes.