Cobra Kai (2018)

The review finds the final episodes a substantial, satisfying send-off that neatly closes the series’ long-running stories. It especially praises the renewed focus on Johnny Lawrence and the emotional resolution of his relationship with Kreese.

The season is presented as a lively return in spectacular style. The review highlights its blend of action, comedy and drama.

Pearce finds the final episodes a satisfying return to form and a fitting conclusion. She singles out William Zabka’s emotionally powerful performance as the show’s sentimental anchor.

Nguyen finds the series predictable and culturally problematic, but still entertaining and appealing as an earnest ’80s throwback. She praises the energetic martial-arts choreography, especially the school cafeteria fight.

Fienberg finds the series more consistently entertaining than its premise suggests, though it is not great and its comedy lands unevenly. He praises the likable performances and the more complicated characters and dramatic stakes, especially the work of Ralph Macchio and William Zabka.

The critic finds the series entertaining and thoughtfully modern, though it leans too often on coincidence and soap-opera plotting. She singles out its nuanced treatment of Johnny and Daniel, along with William Zabka’s layered performance.

Chaney finds the series compelling but uneven, praising its thoughtful take on nostalgia and the old rivalry. She criticizes its amateurish dialogue and direction, and says its use of violence creates a mixed message.

Nevins finds the series sentimental and reasonably charming, but ultimately anachronistic and unrewarding. He singles out its strained attempts to make the original premise feel contemporary as a key weakness.

Godfrey finds this opening stretch of the final season tired and repetitive, though still watchable as comfort TV. He praises the cast’s likability and charisma, while faulting the contrived plot and regressive character writing.

Motamayor calls the season the series’ finest moment, despite its break from realism. He especially praises Yuji Okumoto’s exuberant performance as Chozen and the thrilling fight scenes.

Amatangelo finds the series a delightful, clever follow-up that makes its characters complex and keeps the story engaging. She particularly praises William Zabka’s nuanced performance and his chemistry with Ralph Macchio.

The critic finds the third season smart, funny, and heartwarming, praising its balance of nostalgia and fresh storytelling. They single out William Zabka’s charm and the show’s nuanced use of Karate Kid history, while noting that the teen drama sometimes falls into predictable tropes.

The critic finds the series surprisingly effective and entertaining, despite its unlikely premise. They praise how the early episodes balance callbacks to the original film with Johnny and Daniel’s developing stories.

Surrey finds the fifth season an enjoyable, energetic continuation that expands the show’s stakes while preserving its underdog appeal. He especially praises the shake-up of the familiar dojo rivalries through Terry Silver’s plan to turn Cobra Kai into a global brand.

Trumbore finds that the series stumbles early but ultimately delivers a worthy viewing experience. He praises William Zabka’s performance as a flawed Johnny Lawrence, whose odd-couple pairing with Miguel drives the story.