: Often cited as the weakest entry in the trilogy, critics at the time lambasted its "cartoonish" villains and "redundant" character development.
: The film grossed approximately $38.9 million, a significant drop from the first film's $90.8 million. The Karate Kid Part III
: Ralph Macchio (Daniel), Pat Morita (Mr. Miyagi), and Martin Kove (Kreese) returned, joined by newcomers Robyn Lively, Sean Kanan, and Thomas Ian Griffith. : Often cited as the weakest entry in
: Despite its initial poor reception, the film has gained a cult following and its characters—specifically Terry Silver—became central to the successful Netflix revival series, Cobra Kai . Key Plot Developments Film review: Karate Kid, Part III, The - Deseret News Miyagi), and Martin Kove (Kreese) returned, joined by
Released on June 30, 1989, The Karate Kid Part III serves as the final installment in the original trilogy focused on Daniel LaRusso and Mr. Miyagi. Directed by John G. Avildsen and written by Robert Mark Kamen, the film follows the aftermath of the first two movies, centering on a elaborate revenge plot orchestrated by the disgraced John Kreese and his wealthy friend Terry Silver. Production and Reception