Originally launched back when YouTube was dipping its toe in the original scripted waters, Karate Kid follow-up Cobra Kai was launched into pop culture sensation status after Netflix picked the series up and more people were able to watch it (or where even aware of it). A third season is on the way next month and there's a brand new trailer to remind us all...
The show, which chronicles old rivals Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka) and Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) in their present day travails, is a successful blend of nostalgia for the '80s movie and its sequels (expect more faces from Karate Kid Part III in particular this time) and convincing current story that sees the two men dealing with their families and a fresh-faced group of trainees.
This new footage picks up in the aftermath of Season 2's dramatic, fight-heavy finale, which left Miguel (Xolo Maridueña) in the hospital, Robby (Tanner Buchanan) in jail and the rest of the characters trying to adjust. Johnny turns his back on the Cobra Kai dojo, handing control to his volatile former mentor John Kreese (Martin Kove) and, as we see, trying to help Miguel recover.
With luck, the new season keeps up the quality level and what works about the series. It'll be on Netflix on January 8. After all, who doesn't want to kick 2020 squarely in the stomach and then find zen acceptance in 2021?