The Karate Kid series, Cobra Kai, greeted a more than emotional ending for all the followers of the series and original films
The last season of Cobra Kai has brought many surprises for fans of the franchise Karate KidBut nobody as shocking like The return of the iconic Mr. Miyagi. Although the legendary Pat Morita died more than 20 years agoThe creators of the series found the way Honors his inheritance in the conclusion of the story of Daniel Larusso.
The use of technology to relive an icon
In a emotional tributeLos Showrunners Josh Heald y Jon Hurwitz revealed how they managed to bring back Mr. Miyagi without resorting to simple file images. In an interview with Varietythey explained that they used the Choreographer of the Fight series, Don Lee, as a double body. “Has a complexion similar to that of Pat Morita“He said Hurwitzstressing that the martial arts expert heard honored to play one of his great heroes.
However, the real challenge was Recreate Miyagi’s face and voice. To do this, the team opted for Artificial intelligence and DeepFake technologyworking with a Visual effects TO Perfect every detail. “Let’s move through more than 50 versions before reaching the final result“He explained Heald. The item was also treated with a filter aicombining a Dubbing Actor with original morite audio fileswhich allowed the character Authentic and faithful sound to its essence.
A last teacher at the Student Council
Far from being just one Visual trickthe appearance of Miyagi In Cobra Kai Has a Strong emotional weight. According to the creators, the intention was Allow Daniel Larusso to have his last lesson with his teacher. “Ralph Macchio has loved the idea of sharing the screen with Pat once again, also through technology“He confessed Hurwitz.
For everything Cobra Kai, Miyagi’s spirit and teachings were present in every phase of Daniel. But in this finalhis return It is not just a nostalgic wink, but a key moment for the development of the character. “Daniel needed the last advice to close his story and go on“The creators explained.
The impact of Mr. Miyagi on pop culture
From his first appearance in Karate Kid, Miyagi has become one of the most iconic cinematographic mentors. His teaching style, based on discipline and patience, inspired both inside and outside the screen. His famous philosophy of “harassment and polishing” is today a reference in pop culture, showing that learning goes beyond physical combat.
In addition, his relationship with Daniel Larusso has established an archetype of teacher and student who is still in force in many modern stories. The way Cobra Kai managed his inheritance, especially in the last season, is a proof of the durable impact of the character.
An end of the franchise
From his first in 2018, Cobra Kai reached the unthinkable: Revisit the legacy of Karate Kid and keep it relevant for the new generations. With Six seasons and 65 episodesThe series has known Balanced the tribute to the classics with a fresh and exciting narrative.
Miyagi’s return to this last episode is a testimony of the respect that the production team has for the original saga. Beyond Visual impactThis decision shows him The heart of Karate Kid still beats hard inside Cobra Kai. Now, with the Series that endIt is clear that Miyagi’s legacy will last over timeboth for Daniel Larusso As for the Millions of fans They followed this story for decades.
The last season of Cobra Kai is now available on Netflix.