The international press reported that the open call around the world for participation in the upcoming film “Karate Kid”, which will be released in December next year, received more than 10 thousand applications.
The actor who wins the title will work alongside Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio in the new film within the saga directed by Jonathan Entwistle with a script by Rob Lieber that aims to incorporate and continue the mythology of the original film.
Just one day after the actors announced Sony Pictures’ open call to find the next Karate Kid, niche portal The Hollywood Reporter reported that the studio had received more than 10,000 applications. Submissions for the global search come from countries including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, India, Australia, Singapore, Finland, Sweden and South Africa.
Chan and Macchio appeared in a video released on Tuesday to announce the global search to play Li Fung in the film, which is expected to be filmed between March and June 2024. According to the casting website, the team is looking for someone to play him. Chinese or mixed-race Chinese in the age group of 15 to 17 years.
This intelligent and feisty character is skilled in martial arts, and although he speaks fluent English, his conversational Mandarin is a huge advantage to play the role. Previous acting experience is preferred but not necessary, and experience in martial arts, movement, gymnastics and dance is also ideal.
The action series began in 1984 with the release of “The Karate Kid,” starring Macchio as Daniel LaRusso and the late Pat Morita as Mr. Miyagi. There were three sequels, two of which starred Macchio, before a 2010 remake directed by Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan.
While Sony has yet to release a synopsis for the new film, the series has seen a new wave of popularity with Cobra Kai, a Netflix streaming series featuring Macchio that will soon return for a sixth and final season.
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