Cobra Kai

:

Season 1
Season #: 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
8.1

Universal acclaim- based on 270 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 225 out of 270
  2. Mixed: 14 out of 270
  3. Negative: 31 out of 270
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  1. P_Flux
    May 2, 2018
    10
    Cobra Kai, the continuation of the story of Johnny and Daniel. On my second watching of Episode 1, and yeah. I'm hooked. It's the continuation of the Karate Kid that I didn't even know I wanted! At this point all I've see/learned is the basic paths of Daniel's and Johnny's lives. Daniel has a kid and has made it owning several car dealerships. Johnny does handyman work, I think heCobra Kai, the continuation of the story of Johnny and Daniel. On my second watching of Episode 1, and yeah. I'm hooked. It's the continuation of the Karate Kid that I didn't even know I wanted! At this point all I've see/learned is the basic paths of Daniel's and Johnny's lives. Daniel has a kid and has made it owning several car dealerships. Johnny does handyman work, I think he lives in the old apartment building that Daniel and his mom owned in Karate Kid 1, but not quite sure. There is at least 1 big name cameo that I never saw coming. Once again, I'm hooked. I want to see this story unfold, and yeah. I'm team Johnny.....… Expand
  2. CirialKilr
    May 3, 2018
    10
    Man, what a great show. As a fan of the original Karate Kid movie trilogy this was exactly what I wanted in a continuation. Here's hoping for a season 2.
  3. mgleitef
    May 6, 2018
    10
    30 years later ... WOW! I honestly did not expect much from this TV series ... I thought it was going to be a bland remake and adapted to the current times ... The series is AWESOME!

    The characters are superbly crafted, with a very well done script that leaves us looking forward to the next chapter. You watch the series begin to understand how the characters thought and with flashbacks    30 years later ... WOW! I honestly did not expect much from this TV series ... I thought it was going to be a bland remake and adapted to the current times ... The series is AWESOME!

    The characters are superbly crafted, with a very well done script that leaves us looking forward to the next chapter. You watch the series begin to understand how the characters thought and with flashbacks in the right moments. The series does not lose the rhythm quite the contrary, it increases in each episode. For fans it is the "must see" TV series.

    I'm looking forward to the second season already!    … Expand
  4. MeiLongDong
    May 14, 2018
    9
    I enjoyed it more than it is good if that makes any sense. I'd rank it about a solid 8, but my enjoyment level was more like a 9 or 10. Sequels are never what you want them to be, but is it good is the question, and in this case yes it is. Season 2 can't come soon enough.
  5. gq_foine
    May 4, 2018
    10
    One word- AWESOME!! I didn't know what to expect but holly cow after binge watching the entire 10 episodes this was absolutely the best!! The character and story developmen is just amazing!! I literally signed up to watch the entire series in one night it was that good!!! Anyone who loved Karate kid the orginal will absolutely love this new show!!!! This is a must watch! It's so goodOne word- AWESOME!! I didn't know what to expect but holly cow after binge watching the entire 10 episodes this was absolutely the best!! The character and story developmen is just amazing!! I literally signed up to watch the entire series in one night it was that good!!! Anyone who loved Karate kid the orginal will absolutely love this new show!!!! This is a must watch! It's so good you will be hooked!!!… Expand
  6. Fredy_Gallito
    May 3, 2018
    9
    A worthy sequel for the original saga, perfect for the people who grew up with this series, clever and never gets slow or boring. It delivers very well
  7. danielani
    May 4, 2018
    10
    I grew up watching the Karate Kid film series and I have very fond memories of how the main character progressed and realized himself and the larger story. I love this new series, it just feels so right and having two original characters come back with great writing and other new characters was a blast. Really, this is special and brings back a lot of childhood feelings. I highly recommendI grew up watching the Karate Kid film series and I have very fond memories of how the main character progressed and realized himself and the larger story. I love this new series, it just feels so right and having two original characters come back with great writing and other new characters was a blast. Really, this is special and brings back a lot of childhood feelings. I highly recommend you watch this series, very well done.… Expand
  8. EludiumQ36
    May 20, 2018
    8
    All the poz reviews have it right here so I won't repeat 'em. This first season was put together well and I look forward to another since the final scene of the finale definitely paves the way for one.
  9. srink
    May 23, 2018
    8
    Great series. A great Emotional ride. Started slowly and as the episodes go up, it gained pace and the finale is absolute killer. Excited for season 2
  10. Motoflou
    May 4, 2018
    10
    Holy crap, this show is way better than it had any right to be. It's cheesy as hell at times, but in a good way. It has great character development, with many of the characters going back and forth between being perceived as good or bad. Complex characters. And It doesn't just try to recreate every moment from the original movie as a nostalgia grab. It's very much its own thing. YouHoly crap, this show is way better than it had any right to be. It's cheesy as hell at times, but in a good way. It has great character development, with many of the characters going back and forth between being perceived as good or bad. Complex characters. And It doesn't just try to recreate every moment from the original movie as a nostalgia grab. It's very much its own thing. You can absolutely enjoy this show without having ever seen the original.

    Also...who would have expected a Karate Kid youtube sequel to be such a well thought-out statement on bullying culture?    … Expand
  11. wegie125
    May 4, 2018
    10
    Honestly, I went in with extremely low expectations as this show was something that looked epic but was produced by youtube red. Something that I had no experience with. Even though I was biased from the beginning, I figured I would give it a chance since the first two episodes were free. I also should mention that I don't like when series reboot something from a long time ago, stuff likeHonestly, I went in with extremely low expectations as this show was something that looked epic but was produced by youtube red. Something that I had no experience with. Even though I was biased from the beginning, I figured I would give it a chance since the first two episodes were free. I also should mention that I don't like when series reboot something from a long time ago, stuff like Ghost Busters being remade did nothing but make me angry honestly and I wish that had never happened. This was an exception though, I was so surprised to see something like this do so well, It was enough to get me to buy youtube red. The series had me so attached that I actually felt conflicted with who I should cheer on as the good guy. Everything really has changed and it's cool to see them reference the original karate kid so much. I didn't expect much but I was so impressed and can't wait to see if they do this again with another series soon, I really hope so. Or turning this into a full movie would be really cool.… Expand
  12. Jzathejenius
    May 10, 2018
    8
    Yeah its kinda stupid and often goofy, but man is it thoroughly entertaining from start to finish. They fleshed out Johnny Lawrence as a character really well and I was rooting for him and the Cobra Kai "losers" all the way.

    Its a "turn your brain off" kinda show but that's fine, it never pretends to be more than what it is. It exceeded my super low expectations and it bodes well for    Yeah its kinda stupid and often goofy, but man is it thoroughly entertaining from start to finish. They fleshed out Johnny Lawrence as a character really well and I was rooting for him and the Cobra Kai "losers" all the way.

    Its a "turn your brain off" kinda show but that's fine, it never pretends to be more than what it is. It exceeded my super low expectations and it bodes well for future Youtube Red shows.    … Expand
  13. nicolee331
    May 2, 2018
    10
    As a big fan of the movie I was delighted by this continuation. It honored the movie I love and elevated the story bringing more humor and nuance to the relationships so that as an adult I can still appreciate it - and most importantly keeping the heart. I've only watched the first two episodes, but it already got me in the gut - I cried at the "this season on" at the end of the episode!
  14. SkyfighterDK
    Feb 1, 2019
    10
    Cobra Kai is quite simply put a 80's boy wet dream, everyone on this show did an amazing job and you can feel the love for the original 1984 Karate Kid. Haven't you ever wanted to bring back to life your most beloved show or movie if you had the mean to do it? well these guys did just that and the result is awesome. Rushed through it in one go and it was a blast! Big hopes for more CobraCobra Kai is quite simply put a 80's boy wet dream, everyone on this show did an amazing job and you can feel the love for the original 1984 Karate Kid. Haven't you ever wanted to bring back to life your most beloved show or movie if you had the mean to do it? well these guys did just that and the result is awesome. Rushed through it in one go and it was a blast! Big hopes for more Cobra Kai from the looks of it too. Thanks a lot!… Expand
  15. johnm54
    May 6, 2018
    8
    At the ripe age of 40 I believe I am the target audience for this series. I must say the cast and crew nailed it! This show has comedy, a good plot, chemistry and likable characters. It probably took a lot of thinking to take the original story and spin it off into an interesting series. I ended up binge watching and surprisingly found myself cheering for the Kai at times. Keep up theAt the ripe age of 40 I believe I am the target audience for this series. I must say the cast and crew nailed it! This show has comedy, a good plot, chemistry and likable characters. It probably took a lot of thinking to take the original story and spin it off into an interesting series. I ended up binge watching and surprisingly found myself cheering for the Kai at times. Keep up the great work! Hoping for a season 2… Expand
  16. Vasot
    May 3, 2018
    8
    Comedy-action series and family friendly with 80's nostalgia. It's probably the only series worth watching in Youtube Red it's nice and entertaining. It's pretty good just don't expect anything groundbraking
  17. mrmonster
    May 10, 2018
    9
    I've only seen the first two episodes (the free ones) and it blew me away. This is actually better than the original Karate Kid, because it feels more grounded and more realistic. I loved it, and would easily recommend it to any Karate Kid fan
  18. wwolf_1
    May 3, 2018
    10
    A true Crane Kinck right back the the 80s. After binging the first season, I can`t wait to see where they go with the show.
  19. phizik
    May 5, 2018
    8
    This show is awesome . I loved the plot and its connection to the original movie. The acting is great specially William Zabka "Johnny Lawrence". One thing that I really didn't like in the series is the acting of the guy playing "Robby", his acting is really terrible, I almost fell asleep every time his face pop on the screen . other than that great show.
  20. dechontelle
    May 8, 2018
    6
    I like this show, it has heart. Very cheesy but you fall in love with the characters and hope for the best. I wish them well and just had to binge the entire season in one sitting. Cant' wait for Season 2
  21. Valeli
    May 14, 2018
    8
    Was worried it would be awful, but watched it anyways with YTR's one-month free trial. I actually really liked it. Maybe it's because my expectations were a bit low, but I thought it was fun and got into the melodrama.

    What really impressed me, I guess, is how it scratches the nostalgia without being a complete retread of the original, or without trying to intentionally blow up the    Was worried it would be awful, but watched it anyways with YTR's one-month free trial. I actually really liked it. Maybe it's because my expectations were a bit low, but I thought it was fun and got into the melodrama.

    What really impressed me, I guess, is how it scratches the nostalgia without being a complete retread of the original, or without trying to intentionally blow up the spirit of the original, unlike "some" popular movies of late. Cobra Kai felt a lot like a natural continuation... pleasantly surprised.

    I'm cancelling my YTR trial because I can't find anything worth watching on it, but when season two comes out I might pay for a month to see what follows.    … Expand
  22. fightwarrior
    May 9, 2018
    10
    Lo que puedo decir es que es una serie divertida, entretenida y respeta la nostalgia de quienes disfrutamos la original, vale mucho la pena
  23. MichaelA91
    May 14, 2018
    9
    A solid TV show that builds upon its characters in interesting ways without insulting its legacy but without getting swamped in self-referencing either.

    The only reason this isn't a 10 is because most non-fight scenes are very flat, the dialogue and acting are definitely interesting and the way they're shot seems bland by comparison. Then again it's shot very well when it really    A solid TV show that builds upon its characters in interesting ways without insulting its legacy but without getting swamped in self-referencing either.

    The only reason this isn't a 10 is because most non-fight scenes are very flat, the dialogue and acting are definitely interesting and the way they're shot seems bland by comparison. Then again it's shot very well when it really matters, so not having the consistent editing quality of things like Game of Thrones or Stranger Things feels like more of a budgetary constraint rather than a mistake.

    The jokes made me laugh, most emotional scenes got a bit of a reaction out of me and the tense scenes actually kept me guessing about how things would turn out.

    The show doesn't really have a "good guy" character as the main character, he's too flawed, so in case you NEED a great hero as a lead this might not be what you're looking for.

    Cobra Kai has some of the best character development on TV, not only for the main characters, but most of the secondary characters get an arc as well.

    The story also very directly deals with the issue of bullying and how it's changed in modern times, if you're someone very bothered by scenes with bullies then be warned this show treats that issue a LOT.

    The acting is consistently good from the leading characters INCLUDING the younger actors.

    The show's first episode isn't bad by any means it may be the weakest since it takes a lot of time just establishing the way things are before the show actually gets going, so I suggest watching the first and second episode before deciding if the series is for you.

    This being said i'm not really looking forward to season 2, I think the first one was great and would have had greater emotional impact as a one-off, here's hoping it turns out well though.    … Expand
  24. medduderocket
    May 3, 2018
    10
    Love it. After so many sequels to the original movie this finally takes it all back to the original whilst moving forwards at the same time.
    And I actually find myself torn between Johnny and Daniel!
  25. r0sco1
    May 4, 2018
    10
    Fantastic fresh continuation of the 80s movie. It has brought both the characters and audience with it as well as making it accessible for new fans.

    Love how it doesn't try and make everything politically correct as well.
  26. aeos
    May 5, 2018
    10
    The best serie in 2018, i hope to see seasson 2 very soon.
    Cobra Kai is poised to be the sleeper hit of the television season. Its a show that in theory should be a cringe-inducing second stab at early 80's nostalgia. The series tells the story of 2 50 year old's from the point of view of both characters. Maybe the most surprising element of Cobra Kai is how funny it is without losing the    The best serie in 2018, i hope to see seasson 2 very soon.
    Cobra Kai is poised to be the sleeper hit of the television season. Its a show that in theory should be a cringe-inducing second stab at early 80's nostalgia. The series tells the story of 2 50 year old's from the point of view of both characters. Maybe the most surprising element of Cobra Kai is how funny it is without losing the original film's sense of heart    … Expand
  27. Mr_Sylar
    May 6, 2018
    10
    Honestamente es una serie fabulosa. Para uno que nació con Karate Kid como la base de su infancia, es genial ver a los personajes desarrollados. William Zabka y Ralph Macchio the Best
  28. bondcolour
    May 6, 2018
    8
    A big well done to the team that created this, and all the actors involved.

    They were already facing the incomparable challenge of following on from the legend that is one of the defining 80's films, The Karate Kid, but it is brought truthfully into the modernity of 2018, surprisingly surpassing the apathetic perception of recent classic reboots. Both William Zabka and Ralp Macchio,    A big well done to the team that created this, and all the actors involved.

    They were already facing the incomparable challenge of following on from the legend that is one of the defining 80's films, The Karate Kid, but it is brought truthfully into the modernity of 2018, surprisingly surpassing the apathetic perception of recent classic reboots.

    Both William Zabka and Ralp Macchio, despite my initial fear of bastardised nostalgia, herald a true return to form, as two well-developed and emotionally rounded characters. They offer a true insight into the grey morality of modern life, beyond their initial 80's lives, as well as how Karate has shaped their continuous lives.

    Forget the classic cinema of the 80's, where it was underdog good guy vs. the rich bully bad guy, this show offers new insights into where modern America has arrived, where their success is measured in painful back stories, and where classic archetypes give way unto new beholders.

    I would highly recommend watching this, if for nothing else than William Zabka's exceptional dry humour and delivery to his prospective students, and a welcome closure to the original films of the Karate Kid, and a spurious opening to what else this series has to offer, I sincerely look forward to season 2!    … Expand
  29. dgarrison321
    May 9, 2018
    9
    Cobra Kai is truly amazing. It takes the characters of a mid 1980's fav and expands on life 30 something years later. Because of the transformation of a 2 hour movie to a series the maturity and stories are able to expand into something you want to watch. Mr. Migayi is missed of course, but his wisdom is apparent in Daniel's success. That being said the true magic is we get to see JohnnyCobra Kai is truly amazing. It takes the characters of a mid 1980's fav and expands on life 30 something years later. Because of the transformation of a 2 hour movie to a series the maturity and stories are able to expand into something you want to watch. Mr. Migayi is missed of course, but his wisdom is apparent in Daniel's success. That being said the true magic is we get to see Johnny Lawrence 3 decades later emerge as someone you hope to see succeed. The relationships developing on screen are dynamic and makes you want to call out sick to work and binge next to your favorite bonzai tree.… Expand
  30. sitebender
    Apr 20, 2019
    10
    Entertaining with start to finish with both comedy and drama done well. It's also helped by the fact that these episodes are 30 minutes or less. The only thing watchable on Youtube Red or whatever they're calling it now. Surprised that it didn't go to Crackle since this is from Sony.
  31. jjpscott01
    May 2, 2018
    10
    Cobra Kai is poised to be the sleeper hit of the television season. Its a show that in theory should be a cringe-inducing second stab at early 80's nostalgia. The series tells the story of 2 50 year old's from the point of view of both characters. Maybe the most surprising element of Cobra Kai is how funny it is without losing the original film's sense of heart. Its the kind of show youCobra Kai is poised to be the sleeper hit of the television season. Its a show that in theory should be a cringe-inducing second stab at early 80's nostalgia. The series tells the story of 2 50 year old's from the point of view of both characters. Maybe the most surprising element of Cobra Kai is how funny it is without losing the original film's sense of heart. Its the kind of show you watch and when it ends you realize you've been smiling for half an hour. Its also the kind of series that shouldn't be nearly as good as it is. Clearly someone put a lot of thought in to how they could make this ballsy idea work. Give the pilot a shot and you'll be hooked.… Expand
  32. SuperMax156
    May 3, 2018
    10
    I watched the first two episodes and now, damn it I wanna sign up for youtube red! This thing is actually a blast, it is way better than it has any right to be. And the way it is written with basically the characters from the first one exchanging roles, so now Daniel Larusso is the douchebag is seriously funny.
  33. VeloFellow
    May 3, 2018
    10
    I was hooked and binge watched all 10 episodes. I really enjoyed it; maybe it was the nostalgia factor, but it was much better than I expected. The episodes left me wanting more!
  34. schluss
    May 7, 2018
    10
    No doubt the show will mean more to the people who were raised on the movie(s), however, the writing is great (with Johnny getting the lion's share of the great lines) and you actually care for the Johnny and Daniel. Unlike the movies where there was a definite villain and underdog, the characters on the show are given enough "issues" to where they both can be recognized as real people.No doubt the show will mean more to the people who were raised on the movie(s), however, the writing is great (with Johnny getting the lion's share of the great lines) and you actually care for the Johnny and Daniel. Unlike the movies where there was a definite villain and underdog, the characters on the show are given enough "issues" to where they both can be recognized as real people. I agree with another reviewer who mentioned the lack of political of correctness is refreshing.… Expand
  35. timbsm2
    May 7, 2018
    8
    This is a solid B/B+ effort. Upon starting the first episode, I almost turned it off, thinking that the corniness could not possibly be any cornier. However, after giving it a chance I was quickly drawn into what was ultimately an enjoyable, though highly nostalgic return of a beloved franchise.

    My biggest criticism is that it just seems like it's been too long since the original for    This is a solid B/B+ effort. Upon starting the first episode, I almost turned it off, thinking that the corniness could not possibly be any cornier. However, after giving it a chance I was quickly drawn into what was ultimately an enjoyable, though highly nostalgic return of a beloved franchise.

    My biggest criticism is that it just seems like it's been too long since the original for this story to be believable. Almost 35 years later and this old rivalry and bad feelings are still simmering? Maybe 10 years ago would have made more sense. Still, this is a minor gripe and doesn't detract much; I guess it's never too late to turn your life around, Johnny.

    Another problem is that this is not something you would want your kids watching. The original is a classic story that's appropriate for all ages; this go round... not so much. Complete with day drinking, bong rips, cursing a plenty, and dicks, dicks, dicks, this one is definitely not for the kids.

    Problems aside, I thoroughly enjoyed the show and look forward to more.    … Expand
  36. Josephh
    May 11, 2018
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I found myself hooked on this series, and I thoroughly enjoyed episodes 1-9, but the 10th and final episode of the season, "Mercy", was an episode I didn't agree with. They build terrific character arcs for the two finalist in the Karate Tournament, but they ruin the complexity of these characters, changing them significantly in one episode, and instead of having two complex, grey characters, they change them to a simple, boring and a repetitive set of black and white characters. With this finish to the season, I am unsure how they will successfully begin their next season in 2019; but other than this episode I was compelled by the series and character development.… Expand
  37. Goo4you
    May 8, 2018
    9
    I'm nearing 40, Cobra Kai was made for me. Now while the show is a niche concept that doesn't mean there isn't something for younger people. The nostalgia is for the older viewer but the themes are timeless. The acting is done well, the music choices are great, even the set pieces and camera style is excellent, and for a product that had a limited budget (not quite a movie, nor a tv show).I'm nearing 40, Cobra Kai was made for me. Now while the show is a niche concept that doesn't mean there isn't something for younger people. The nostalgia is for the older viewer but the themes are timeless. The acting is done well, the music choices are great, even the set pieces and camera style is excellent, and for a product that had a limited budget (not quite a movie, nor a tv show). They had the assets to use, and use them they did. Every episode was satisfying as was the ending.

    For a YouTube Red project, Cobra Kai is literally the best of the bunch. Everything YouTube has created for red has been a gargantuan failure in terms of production, quality, and design. YouTube wants desperately to be television when it should be more like Netflix. Cobra Kai is a perfect example of what happens when you steer closer to that than trying to become yet another mindless television network.

    Young or old, Cobra Kai is worth at least the month free of Red to watch, just don't stick around for anything else, Red has nothing to offer really (unless you use all of Google's other services).    … Expand
  38. Qgal5kap
    Mar 26, 2019
    4
    In a world where mere hours of martial arts training makes you a black belt. Where good turns to bad and bad turns to good in mere months. Frankly I am a bit disappointed. Although my nostalgia bone is literally vibrating throughout the whole series, I am still left with a bad taste in my mouth. This thing suffers from mostly poor acting, severely predictable plots, and overall low qualityIn a world where mere hours of martial arts training makes you a black belt. Where good turns to bad and bad turns to good in mere months. Frankly I am a bit disappointed. Although my nostalgia bone is literally vibrating throughout the whole series, I am still left with a bad taste in my mouth. This thing suffers from mostly poor acting, severely predictable plots, and overall low quality martial arts. I want to love it, and am looking forward to season two. I do wish it was a bit better though.… Expand
  39. JadenFrost
    May 23, 2018
    9
    A great throwback to the original movie, It even uses the two original actors. Protagonist and Antagonist. As of season one the writing has been good, as is character deployment. If you were a fan of the first one or even 2 and 3, you'll probably like this show. Wile seeing the first ones aren't needed you'll appreciate some of the references more if you have.
  40. Juansith
    May 5, 2018
    10
    Wow!
    This is just an excellent tv series, I’m blown away.
    I haven’t had this much fun since i was 4 years old watching Karate Kid. I never thought I would love Johnny Lawrence so much. They have developed him as a very interesting, underdog character.
    From all the lately nostalgia trend, this series is by far the best most heart felt and witty of all.
  41. MiniMovieManiac
    Feb 6, 2019
    9
    Cobra Kai brings the great 80's nostalgia and meshes it perfectly with new, modern, characters and stories. It's great to see the original actors reprise their roles with talented young actors that make the series worth watching. What makes this series standout is one thing, while you may be overjoyed to see Ralph and William back, you find yourself more invested in the youngerCobra Kai brings the great 80's nostalgia and meshes it perfectly with new, modern, characters and stories. It's great to see the original actors reprise their roles with talented young actors that make the series worth watching. What makes this series standout is one thing, while you may be overjoyed to see Ralph and William back, you find yourself more invested in the younger characters. You realize that the story you're following is not Danial and Johnny's rivalry, but how the teach these new kids their ways of karate. This was the biggest surprise of 2018 and was well worth it in every way, fun with great comedy and just enough nostalgia to keep you happy that the franchise is in good hands.… Expand
  42. shahidkhan
    May 17, 2018
    9
    This is how to get nostalgia right.

    I'm an 80s kid and, like many of my peers, have fond recollections of the Karate Kid movies. I have vivid memories of my friends and I practising the crane kick in the school playground on each other. So imagine our surprise to hear that this beloved series was being brought back as a comedy web series on YouTube. With the original cast no less.    This is how to get nostalgia right.

    I'm an 80s kid and, like many of my peers, have fond recollections of the Karate Kid movies. I have vivid memories of my friends and I practising the crane kick in the school playground on each other.

    So imagine our surprise to hear that this beloved series was being brought back as a comedy web series on YouTube. With the original cast no less. And the first trailers landed and immediately hit me hard in the nostalgias.

    Tonally, the trailers were comedy-heavy and whilst the jokes were amusing it did feel like a departure from the world that had been created in the movies.

    I am incredibly happy to report it is better than I ever expected it to be and better, as I read in another review, than it has any right to be.

    This is nostalgia done right; with a reverence for the original source but a willingness to be playful with it. Yes there is comedy but it veers more towards comedy-drama and is not too dissimilar from the first movie from which this series takes its entire inspiration.

    Johnny Lawrence is a down-and-out loser surviving day-to-day as an odd-job man, living in a run-down apartment building. Turns out you lose one karate tournament as a teenager and it really screws up the rest of your life.

    Johnny is still hung up on his past, unable to move on and finding it impossible to escape his rival’s success as Daniel’s numerous promotions of his car dealership intrude on his life. From his point of view, Johnny was the hero in his own story and Daniel was the villain. But the hero lost in this version and we get to see the fallout all these years later.

    And then a new kid called Miguel moves in next door to Johnny and a parallel to the first movie is played out after which Cobra Kai is open for business once again as Johnny has a point to prove to his old nemesis and his other doubters.

    I have to say, the central performance by William Zabka as Johnny Lawrence is excellent. Despite being abrasive, misogynistic and borderline racist, somehow you still end up rooting for him. His delivery in every scene is pitch perfect and lines that should sound nasty are softened by a smart, nuanced performance of a man lost in time, still living in the 80s. In later episodes he flat out bullies some of his students and his choice of language is hilariously inappropriate – “God, I feel like I’m a virgin again just looking at you” is delivered to a young, skinny teen and that’s one of the kinder things he says to his new protégés.

    The series strikes a precarious balance between modern humour and 80’s cheese without crossing the line into parody - which it could easily have done. A scene in a graveyard in later episodes ends on a quietly epic shot that highlights an obvious respect the makers of this series have for the original.

    The real fun for us old-timers is the references back to the original films.They weave in flashbacks and musical cues from the movies but it isn’t overdone and in most cases serves the story. But the show doesn’t rely on nostalgia alone and actually manages to offer a compelling narrative about the rivalry between two men that goes back to their youth and which neither has fully gotten over.

    Also Daniel is revealed not to be the cocky douche he came across as in the trailers. Although a successful businessman he has trouble connecting with his kids and still suffers from bouts of anger which lead to questionable decisions. And he finds himself lost later in life without Mr Miyagi’s advice to guide him. In other words, this is a totally believable evolution of the character in the first movie.

    Neither Danny or Johnny is the hero or villain here, both have good and valid reasons why they think they’re both in the right. The show does a good job of layering in complexity to both characters, their relationships and how they react to each other. Again I was surprised by the level of nuance built into the series. Yes it has moments of crude humour, and the language is certainly saltier than the PG rating the movies got. But it strikes the right balance between 80s cheese, modern humour, story and nostalgia.

    The show did lose steam for me when focusing on the teenage cast. Although all decent performances the narrative was once again about high school crushes and bullies which we’ve all seen before. The fight scenes aren’t really as captivating either to those of us watching amazing choreography weekly in the Arrowverse or Marvel’s TV offerings, but they’re not supposed to be and that’s fine. This is supposed to be the real world and aside from one overly-enthusiastic contestant in the tournament who kept doing somersaults for no discernible tactical advantage that I could see (aside from maybe it looks cool) the fight scenes are believably realistic in most cases.

    But all in all, when considering just how bad this series could potentially have been, I'm amazed they pulled off so well!    … Expand
  43. OlivierPiel
    May 10, 2018
    6
    80's nostalgia at its best. It doesn't try to hide or "transcend" it to be pompous and to take itself seriously like Stranger Things. Nice watching this with my wife and reminisce those old days. Of course it's not a masterpiece, it has lots of cliches, you can often see miles ahead where it goes but at least I didn't roll my eyes watching this like Stranger Things. The lead character is80's nostalgia at its best. It doesn't try to hide or "transcend" it to be pompous and to take itself seriously like Stranger Things. Nice watching this with my wife and reminisce those old days. Of course it's not a masterpiece, it has lots of cliches, you can often see miles ahead where it goes but at least I didn't roll my eyes watching this like Stranger Things. The lead character is played very aptly, nice nuances between likable loser and hot-headed jerk.… Expand
  44. Elthor
    Jan 8, 2019
    0
    'How I Met Your Mother' floated the joke that Daniel was the bully of the Karate Kid films and Johnny, the real hero, was his victim. That joke becomes the foundation for Cobra Kai, a satire of the original 80s movies.

    If you like the original films, you will probably hate how they have been corrupted. Daniel has retained none of the values he learned from Miyagi. Johnny has zero    'How I Met Your Mother' floated the joke that Daniel was the bully of the Karate Kid films and Johnny, the real hero, was his victim. That joke becomes the foundation for Cobra Kai, a satire of the original 80s movies.

    If you like the original films, you will probably hate how they have been corrupted. Daniel has retained none of the values he learned from Miyagi. Johnny has zero self esteem and his life is a dumpster fire. The series follows these two middle aged idiots as they torment each other and the teenagers that they use in their feud.

    Pure crap. Nothing worth watching this for.    … Expand
  45. kuehnau
    May 5, 2018
    3
    The story of two middle aged, washed up men who use children to settle old scores from their pasts. Johnny is a deadbeat, while Daniel seems to be suffering from some sort of hero syndrome.

    What makes the show even more frustrating is the fact that it completely ignores the fact that Daniel was bascially a psychopathic bully who harassed Johnny and his friends in school. Let's be    The story of two middle aged, washed up men who use children to settle old scores from their pasts. Johnny is a deadbeat, while Daniel seems to be suffering from some sort of hero syndrome.

    What makes the show even more frustrating is the fact that it completely ignores the fact that Daniel was bascially a psychopathic bully who harassed Johnny and his friends in school.

    Let's be clear here, in the original movie, Daniel was the one who provoked Johnny. So when as adults Daniel starts harassing Johnny all over again, it feels absolutely absurd.

    Daniel is a successful buisnessman , he lives in utmost comfort with his beautiful wife and his spoiled children in what is essentially a mansion. Johnny meanwhile lives alone in a run down apartment complex and is fired from his dead end job in the very first episode.

    The moment Daniel meets Johnny, you can tell he is lording his good fortune over Johnny. And as soon as Daniel realizes that Johnny is teaching karate, he goes on the defensive to make every attempt to squash his old enemy.

    Frankly, if YouTube wanted me to pay for Red, this was possibly one of the worst shows they could have used to try and lure me in.    … Expand
  46. brockcheese
    Nov 5, 2020
    7
    If you liked Karate Kid you will definitely like this show as it takes a fan theory and realizes it to its fullest potential. While some of the drams is pretty corny, the action and character development are well thought out.
  47. Skeletor71
    Jun 3, 2018
    9
    It might not be perfect, but man is it awesome! This is nostalgia done the right way. There are a few cringeworthy moments, but if you're willing to look past that it is such a feel good trip. I'm getting my walkman and playing my Boston - Don't look back tape right now!
  48. Weeeeee711
    May 3, 2018
    7
    A 7 sounds fair.

    -Subplots I just didn't care about in the slightest.

    -The old way of ..not saying/doing something that just leads to conflict later is used WAY too much in this. As cliche' as it gets!

    The nostalgia..you knew they had to have and for the MOST part..I thought it was handled well.

    Mary Mouser (Samantha) did a great job!
  49. Cinemaphile
    Jul 10, 2018
    4
    Blech. I cannot believe I have to write 75 characters about this melodramatic, poorly written television show.
  50. Gibblets
    May 6, 2018
    6
    Ugh. Should have known it was too good to be true. Considering the show comes from the makers of Harold and Kumar I shouldn't be surprised. The series is full of cheesy jokes. The original Karate Kid had maybe 10 jokes in the whole movie, it was a teen drama, the Cobra Kai series is a teen comedy. The characters in the original movie were more believable, the characters in Cobra Kai areUgh. Should have known it was too good to be true. Considering the show comes from the makers of Harold and Kumar I shouldn't be surprised. The series is full of cheesy jokes. The original Karate Kid had maybe 10 jokes in the whole movie, it was a teen drama, the Cobra Kai series is a teen comedy. The characters in the original movie were more believable, the characters in Cobra Kai are caricatures of teenagers based off sit com stereotypes. If you like the idea of a goofy cheesy Karate Kid series you will like it.… Expand
  51. biff1
    Apr 21, 2019
    4
    Cobra Kai has so much potential, but lacks class. The characters and plot line are interesting and overall it is well done, but it is definitely not appropriate for kids and tweens. There is porn being watched in s1e4, oral sex and fellatio form a major plot line through much of season 1 (repeatedly, different scenes and characters different contexts), and trashy sex talk throughout.Cobra Kai has so much potential, but lacks class. The characters and plot line are interesting and overall it is well done, but it is definitely not appropriate for kids and tweens. There is porn being watched in s1e4, oral sex and fellatio form a major plot line through much of season 1 (repeatedly, different scenes and characters different contexts), and trashy sex talk throughout. It's sad because the sleazy elements don't really advance the plotline any, it's just gratuitous trash. It puzzles me why the writers and producers felt that was necessary - it ruins it as a family experience.… Expand
  52. norse
    Jun 30, 2018
    10
    This is an absolutely astounding series - the characters experience real growth, behave like real people, and the writing has a subdued humor that I haven't seen in TV often enough. I particularly appreciate the moments when the series could go with a cliche but instead has the characters behave rationally. Phenomenal acting by the original actors who pick up from their original roles, hat off!
  53. drlowdon
    Feb 17, 2021
    8
    Set thirty years after Daniel LaRusso (The Karate Kid) defeated Johnny Lawrence of Cobra Kai to win the All Valley Karate Championship, Larusso has since gone on to live a happy and successful life whilst his once bitter rival has been unable to make much of his life.

    'Cobra Kai' isn't perfect, but with a humorous script that utilises the 80's nostalgia just enough without over doing    Set thirty years after Daniel LaRusso (The Karate Kid) defeated Johnny Lawrence of Cobra Kai to win the All Valley Karate Championship, Larusso has since gone on to live a happy and successful life whilst his once bitter rival has been unable to make much of his life.

    'Cobra Kai' isn't perfect, but with a humorous script that utilises the 80's nostalgia just enough without over doing it, this first season is an enjoyable watch whether you're a fan of the original movie(s) or not.    … Expand
  54. CharlieBrown8
    May 28, 2018
    10
    The best surprise of this TV season! It’s such a wonderful gem. With superb writing and acting, it stays faithful to its source material, and then adds so much thoughful depth and layers to it that it emerges with a bigger heart than the original. This is how to capitalize on a cinematic legacy. Now can we please have something similar for The Goonies, Ferries Buehler's Day Off, TheThe best surprise of this TV season! It’s such a wonderful gem. With superb writing and acting, it stays faithful to its source material, and then adds so much thoughful depth and layers to it that it emerges with a bigger heart than the original. This is how to capitalize on a cinematic legacy. Now can we please have something similar for The Goonies, Ferries Buehler's Day Off, The Breakfat Club, and Gremlins?… Expand
  55. VonSeux
    May 6, 2018
    8
    really loved the point where the history picks up, soundtrack and nostalgia factor. Lawrence is really pissed off with his life and that was fu. To watch. This also confirms the fan theory that Daniel is the actual villain on the original movie. It WAS an illegal kick.
    On the down side, too few characters makes the plot delovpment depends on too many coincidences, well... thats normal in    really loved the point where the history picks up, soundtrack and nostalgia factor. Lawrence is really pissed off with his life and that was fu. To watch. This also confirms the fan theory that Daniel is the actual villain on the original movie. It WAS an illegal kick.
    On the down side, too few characters makes the plot delovpment depends on too many coincidences, well... thats normal in tv shows I guess    … Expand
  56. SchnitzelPoof
    Aug 11, 2018
    10
    I did not care much for the original Karate Kid, but this series is a work of genius. The characters are all complex. Endearing, but flawed. Their conflicts are tragic, arising from their imperfect character. Almost everyone is transformed throughout the season to some degree, and each journey is a pleasure to follow. In two words: must watch!
  57. ComandanteCobra
    Apr 23, 2019
    9
    Fear does not exist in this dojo, Pain does not exist in this dojo, Defeat does not exist in this dojo..even after thirty years.
    Good show...better than karate kid 2 and 3.
    Fast, short and different (in a good way) from what I was expecting...I feared a show created just to monetize on 80's nostalgia but isn't the case.
    I'll wait for the second season
  58. Stroker_289
    Jun 4, 2018
    10
    Simply put.....AWESOME!!! So many great memories, great plotlines, great everything! Sleeper series of the year for sure! Cobra Kai never dies!!!!!
  59. elyh
    May 15, 2018
    8
    The show is great especially if you grew up in the 80s. This series shows how to reboot an old franchise, stay true to the original and bring something new. Puts to shame a famous space opera movie released recently.
  60. AmyBenevento
    Jun 20, 2018
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Cobra Kai is goofy at times, silly, sometimes original/sometimes cliché-filled, sometimes depicting black+white characters; and other times, showing well rounded characters. It wobbles.

    At first, I thought the series was written for kids, until I saw dicks on posters, dicks peeing on cars, and dick-ee people, not to mention the constant drinking and bong-ing. Ahh... okay.

    SPOILER ALERT AHEAD:

    Johnny was too dark and "all bad", at times. But when they showed the duality of his character, that's when things got interesting. What's bad about this show is how he's so horrible to his new and only student (and is the kid such a total idiot he doesn't see this?). What's good is when Johnny starts to show affection for this teen. And his son.

    Daniel is just adorable... always was, and is so even now into his 50's... adorable in a chipmunk kind of way. His wife is just too perfect and too pretty. His 11-year-old son (at first, I thought his son was a girl) is despicable. He's not real... too despicable in an unreal way, created for laughs. His daughter seems like all of Daniel's girlfriend when he was a teen... no real definition... just stereo-typed "good teen girl."

    The wife just exists for Daniel. She has no life. Just Daniel. I take it just men are writing the screenplay here, as the women characters are flat. Except for the heavy teen girl who joins Cobra Kai... love her.

    I also enjoy that teen boy nerd. Good side actor.

    The boy with the hair-lip who later spikes his hair is an attempt at humor, but again, too cliché. Please... make him REAL, not just funny.

    The Hispanic boy has potential, as long as he doesn't turn "all bad" with Cobra Kai's influence. They need to show conflict in him, and not turn him into a comic book character.

    I think Johnny/William is a better actor than Daniel/Ralph. But Daniel is cuter.

    If the writers stop trying to be so obviously funny and develop the characters and show how human and conflicted they are, this show could be fantastic. However, I almost peed my pants in laughter when Johnny and Daniel are riding in the car, fighting, until their favorite corny chick-song plays on the radio... and they both start singing to it. Priceless.    … Expand
  61. joeyabuki
    Jul 16, 2018
    9
    Excellent series, dama, action with touches of comedy; character development after 34 years is great, new characters are good as well; good plot and script; great choreaography that remind us the saga; tribute to Rocky. This show is made with love.
  62. Davrosdaleks1
    Jul 23, 2018
    10
    This half-hour dramedy on Youtube Premium is a sequel to the Karate Kid movies featuring Danny LaRusso and his old high school rival Johnny Lawrence with the main plot focusing on a down-on-his-luck Johnny opening the old Cobra Kai dojo. This naturally results in opening old wounds with Danny considering that the dojo had been his enemy up until this point.

    When I first heard of this    This half-hour dramedy on Youtube Premium is a sequel to the Karate Kid movies featuring Danny LaRusso and his old high school rival Johnny Lawrence with the main plot focusing on a down-on-his-luck Johnny opening the old Cobra Kai dojo. This naturally results in opening old wounds with Danny considering that the dojo had been his enemy up until this point.

    When I first heard of this show, naturally I was a little curious, especially with the focus on the antagonist. When the first trailer came out, my interest waned a bit because, it just didn't seem all that interesting. Then the buzz came and after hearing all the positive reviews, I decided what the heck and subscribed to Youtube Premium just to watch. Not only does this live up to the hype, I feel it actually surpasses it.

    This show has an exceptionally compelling plot. There are a lot of twists and turns and not a moment feels wasted. The cast is strong even down to the most minor characters. Still, the star player is Johnny. No offense to Ralph Macchio, but William Zabka is the stronger actor and keeps this whole thing going with a multifaceted performance. Here Johnny is the lovable d***. He's not PC, doesn't know current technology, estranged from his son and has a very tough love/anti-Mr. Miyagi style. Yet, he is sympathetic: his current life sucks, his childhood personal life turns out to be less-than-idyllic, and he wants to improve things with his son, get his life back together, and teach the one thing he' was ever good at. He's pretty funny too. Johnny struggles all the way. He's clueless and is basically flying by the-seat-of-his-pants and improvising on the spot as a business owner and mentor.

    The constant between tension between Johnny and Danny works because they're both have valid points and weaknesses. Danny has a legitimate reason not to see Cobra Kai's "no mercy" doctrine continue, but years of struggling against his opponents and to be successful has left him with a bit of a black-and-white mentality. Johnny wants to restore the glory of Cobra Kai, which was destroyed by his previous sensei Kreese, but is misguided in his belief that only Kreese was flawed and not the teachings.

    Although there are too many characters to endorse, special kudos should be given to Amanda, Danny's level-headed wife and the voice-of-reason, and Miguel, Johnny's overly enthusiastic hero-worshiping pupil who forms a bond with him.

    Although this is an antihero show, don't worry about this getting too dramatic or serious. Cobra Kai has a very 80's quality and breezy feel to the proceedings. The jokes flow naturally and are pretty funny. The show is also self-aware and isn't afraid to call itself out on the ridiculousness of two middle-aged men fixated on a high school rivalry and the fact that karate dojos aren't quite as popular as they were in the eighties.

    I watched this in the course of a weekend, and it is probably one of the best shows I've experienced in a while.    … Expand
  63. Hua
    Oct 22, 2020
    10
    A perfect, poetic sequel to The Karate Kid films, and just an amazing show in its own right; great characters, arcs and acting. Loved every second of this first season and cannot wait for the journey to continue!
  64. dell221
    May 5, 2018
    10
    great tv show. it gives you a nostalgic feeling from the old movie. love the flashbacks to the old movie as well. only thing I can say bad about this show is that it last 30 mins instead of an hr
  65. therealbones
    May 16, 2018
    10
    I thought this TV show was going to be another corny sequel but I was really surprised. It captures the spirit of the old Karate Kid with a mix of Revenge of the Nerds and Bad News Bear. This is one of the few shows that binged with excitement. The writers flipped the story focusing on the former antagonist Johnny Lawrence and making him likable without drastically changing his personalityI thought this TV show was going to be another corny sequel but I was really surprised. It captures the spirit of the old Karate Kid with a mix of Revenge of the Nerds and Bad News Bear. This is one of the few shows that binged with excitement. The writers flipped the story focusing on the former antagonist Johnny Lawrence and making him likable without drastically changing his personality of the high school bully.

    The TV series does a good job at exploring Johnny's perspective while revisiting the Karate Kid as an aging father/husband going through somewhat of a midlife crisis. But the saga still puts "coming of age teenagers" at the center of the storyline retelling the Karate Kid saga and having a lot of fun doing it.    … Expand
  66. donthemagicjuan
    May 31, 2018
    9
    After 4 eps, Cobra Kai stands on its own from the movies. It's a good blend of comedy, action, with heart and the twists and subplots are now starting to develop. Poignant moments w/parents and children, lost friends and generational misunderstandings make this a really good show. By far, William Zabka's best work.
  67. Benski2046
    Jun 7, 2018
    10
    A true spiritual sequel to the original Karate Kid movie, the idea of starting this series from the perspective of the 'bad guy' is inspired. Seriously, it's astonishing how well it works. How it manages to be hilarious one moment and touching the next; how it's got one foot firmly planted in the world of 80s action and martial arts movies, and the other satirising contemporary socialA true spiritual sequel to the original Karate Kid movie, the idea of starting this series from the perspective of the 'bad guy' is inspired. Seriously, it's astonishing how well it works. How it manages to be hilarious one moment and touching the next; how it's got one foot firmly planted in the world of 80s action and martial arts movies, and the other satirising contemporary social issues at a standard South Park would be proud of. And it's the juxtaposition of 80s values and modern society that provides most the laughs. That shows us how far we've progressed, on one hand, and how much we've lost on the other. Not least an age when film and TV had personality, felt larger than life and took risks, and most of all, was just downright fun to watch.… Expand
  68. FerCasal
    Jun 27, 2018
    10
    What can I add that It's not already been said, Cobra Kai is the way to do sequels, period, it's just a blast.
  69. Markini
    Apr 12, 2022
    1
    The glorification of fragile masculinity. The acting is subpar and one-note. The writing is lazy. Save yourself the time and watch the original Karate Kid.
  70. Rohan1207
    May 1, 2019
    10
    This is just a great show... with a different perspective on things, and a true successor to the original Karate Kid...
  71. Onlyclassicvg1
    Sep 26, 2022
    8
    The movie film is a government assigned project to broaden and enlight people and glory of nation. Cultural learning is emportant to follow on global basis. We make our nation a better and more convenient place for house and living. Kazakhs are progressive and asstonishing people that with conclusion of project will have new optimistic
  72. geewah
    Dec 20, 2020
    5
    Reaaly disappointing and cheesy addition to the The Karate Kid library.
    Some ordinary acting and predictable writing take the gloss off what could of been a really dynamic tv show.
  73. cylun
    Jan 15, 2022
    5
    From episode 9 on, it's disappointing and full of cliches. It's like modern writers don't try to go novel paths but instead follow a text book of how to drive a plot, sacrifice character logic if need be, just to get where you want to get - to the final subversion. But if you don't get there naturally in an authentic way, nothing will be satisfying in the end. I didn't enjoy the finalFrom episode 9 on, it's disappointing and full of cliches. It's like modern writers don't try to go novel paths but instead follow a text book of how to drive a plot, sacrifice character logic if need be, just to get where you want to get - to the final subversion. But if you don't get there naturally in an authentic way, nothing will be satisfying in the end. I didn't enjoy the final third of this season. It was frustrating to watch.… Expand
  74. Jimz14u
    Jan 1, 2022
    10
    So glad they came out with this show. Love binge watching the show and it's awesome they have alot of the same people! Very smart and look forward to seeing more Seasons, just finished Season 4 and looking forward to Season 5!

Awards & Rankings

69
#69 Best TV Season of 2018
12
#12 Most Discussed TV Season of 2018
52
#52 Most Shared TV Season of 2018

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 11 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 11
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 11
  3. Negative: 0 out of 11
  1. CNN
    Reviewed by: Brian Lowry
    May 2, 2018
    75
    For the most part, it's an extremely clever revival, an overachiever that knowingly plays off the title's kitsch factor while evolving the characters and augmenting the cast in savvy ways.
    Read full review
  2. New York Magazine (Vulture)
    Reviewed by: Jen Chaney
    May 2, 2018
    70
    Even if Cobra Kai is a little too in love with its evocations of the movie, there is still something compelling about seeing Johnny and Daniel back together, particularly because both men haven’t changed in key ways and have different ways of grappling with and denying that.
    Read full review
  3. Variety
    Reviewed by: Mekeisha Madden Toby
    May 2, 2018
    70
    This show gets a lot of things right from the perfect amount of references and music from the original and the acid-washed 1980s where the movie reigned supreme to the impressive casting and acting. .... That said, Cobra Kai relies on coincidence far too often even for a show spawned from the decade of decadence.
    Read full review
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