Hugo wrote: ↑Wed Sep 16, 2020 3:26 am
Really enjoyed this.
It's interesting how they have managed to turn Johnny into a likeable underdog without altering his underlying personality. I enjoy watching his approach to coaching karate because it is so far removed from what would be considered acceptable in real life but at the same time he also recognises the excesses of his mentor and tries to make amends.
The other thing that is a throwback to a bygone era is that he is not dealing with parents breathing down his neck. No-one would have the freedom to operate how he does today precisely because the parents would hold them accountable.
Indeed, it's helped by the fact none of the characters in the original were written as perfect and the seeds of Johnny being a decent guy corrupted by Cobra Kai were always there (His given Danny the Trophy, the look of confusion then horror on his face when told to cheat).
Cobra Kai (and I only have reached the 2nd episode of series 2) is truly excellent, every character is interesting, has a good side and is flawed and they all feel 3 dimensional and real human beings. Albeit humans who are all into martial arts as the solution of their problems.
While much of the humour comes from Johnny ripping into soft Gen Z kids who need safe spaces or from his complete lack of understanding of the modern world, the show does an excellent job of balancing different perspectives. It does this best where it can both condemn Johnny's OTT and unhealthy 80's toxic macho upbringing as the route of his failures in life, but also suggest that modern kids can do with a dose of some old school focus and discipline to help guide them in life to achieve their goals and live a happier life.
Cobra Kai is also a great example of how to take a great franchise and continue it without needing to depend on rehashing the old stuff or reboot it in a way that shows no understanding of what made the story or characters great. It really works for the original fans and new comers. It also helps that the great writing makes it that the new kid characters are just as engaging and their stories just as exciting as the older ones.
