I was never fond of nepotism. I hate how relatives of celebrities and socialites are given more favorable opportunities in the entertainment industry just because they carry the famous last name. Most of them are terrible in acting, singing, or whatever it is that they’re temporarily interested in—and yet they land the good jobs.
But there are a few “privileged children” who prove their mettle. One is Jaden Smith, 11-year-old son of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett. He’s wrapping up the remake of The Karate Kid, made famous by Ralph Macchio and the late Pat Morita in the ’80s.
Jaden landed the lead role of Dre Parker, an American boy who is forced to move to China with his mom. There, he finds trouble in the neighborhood and learns Kung Fu from Mr. Han, played by Jackie Chan. Mr. Han, the maintenance man, is secretly a master of Kung Fu.
My doubts about this flick were erased when I saw the trailer. The movie didn’t exactly ride on the “wax-on, wax-off” formulas that worked in the ’80s, but there are familiar Mr. Miyagi moments that both the old and young generation can enjoy.
Jaden also shows impressive acting chops and martial arts know-how. He was so good that Jackie Chan was blown away during their shoots last year. “He put my son to shame!” Jackie said in an interview. “I provided my son with the best martial artists in the world, and he could not be persuaded to try it. In just two months, Jaden had learned so much. He is truly a talented boy,” he said.
The film is currently in post-production and I cannot wait to see it in June!
