Ben Wang’s casting in “Karate Kid: Legends” marks a historic milestone, as he becomes the first Asian American to take on the iconic role of Li Fong. The movie reunites original stars Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan, who played Daniel and Mr. Han in the 2010 film.
Wang, who is still in disbelief at his casting, views it as a “privilege” that has given him a platform to break down barriers for young Asian American children. He hopes to inspire them to see themselves as heroes, rather than just sidekicks or villains.
The movie’s release comes after years of criticism for the lack of representation and stereotyping in the original films. Author Jeff Yang, who wrote “The Golden Screen: The Movies That Made Asian America,” has long argued that Asian characters were often relegated to secondary roles or stereotypes.
However, with “Karate Kid: Legends,” the franchise is finally offering a more inclusive and authentic representation of Asian American experiences. The movie’s casting, choreography, and storyline all reflect this shift, making it a significant moment in the history of the franchise.
Wang has already experienced the thrill of working alongside legendary martial artist Jackie Chan, who plays his mentor in the film. The actor hopes that his performance will pave the way for more Asian American actors to take on leading roles in Hollywood.
As Wang said, “It’s always been a situation where the ancient or legendary martial arts master is transferring his skills not just to another generation, but into another community.” With “Karate Kid: Legends,” the franchise is finally embracing this opportunity, making it a must-see event for fans of all ages.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/karate-kid-asian-american-ben-wang-morita-62b010c7d2007f956eee18f1cc44f7fa