Key Takeaways:
– The 1984 classic “The Karate Kid” almost excluded legendary actor Pat Morita.
– Late producer Jerry Weintraub didn't want Morita to audition due to his comedy background.
– Despite Weintraub's apprehension, director John Avildsen believed otherwise and fought for Morita.
– Weintraub was ultimately swayed when Morita had to test five times for the role.
How Pat Morita Almost Missed “The Karate Kid” Audition
“Wax on, wax off.” This iconic phrase from “The Karate Kid” might not have existed if the late producer, Jerry Weintraub, had his way. Despite the 1984 film being hailed as one of the most successful martial arts action dramas, its journey to such acclaim almost hit an early roadblock. Weintraub was reportedly against letting comedian Pat Morita, who turned out to be a fan-favorite, audition for the role of Mr. Kensuke Miyagi. In his mind, Morita's comic background just didn't fit the role meant for a serious actor.
Director John Avildsen Believes in Morita
The director of the film, John Avildsen, saw the potential in Morita and wasn't going to let Weintraub's bias tarnish his vision. He believed in Morita's talent enough to arrange a one-on-one reading with the actor. Avildsen, sure of Morita's right to the role, even recorded the session to show Weintraub and asked the actor to take the script home. This sparked a glimmer of hope in Morita, who caught the indication that he had a chance at bagging the role.
Morita Tests Five Times for the Role
After Avildsen presented Morita's performance in the recording, Weintraub was indeed impressed. But the former comedian wasn't given his ticket to Mr. Miyagi so easily. Weintraub wanted proof, real proof that Morita could uphold the serious role of a karate master. In return, he had Morita screen test five times, with various challenges, like performing in costume and even running scenes with co-star, Ralph Macchio (Daniel LaRusso), to check their chemistry.
The Achievement That Almost Wasn't
On clearing the grueling five-part trial, Weintraub finally admitted his early judgment could have been a huge mistake. He congratulated Morita on winning Mr. Miyagi's part, which later became one of the film's greatest landmarks. Morita's performance in the film was so stellar that it earned an Oscar and a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
In The End, Morita Was Right for The Part
Thankfully, Morita's talent shone through, and Avildsen's belief wasn't misplaced. In retrospect, not casting Morita could have been a massive misstep, given the importance of Mr. Miyagi's character in the storyline. Weintraub's initial judgment illustrates the hidden biases that sometimes exist in the casting process. Appreciating an actor's versatility, like Morita's, could transform a movie from being just good to genuinely great.
The Karate Kid remains a golden classic in martial arts film history. Taking us on an inspiring journey of a bullied teenager, guided by an unlikely mentor, it illustrates how underestimation can often lead to amazing triumphs. For all enthusiasts out there who wish to recall or witness the incredible journey, the film is available on Netflix.
In the film industry, one decision can change the trajectory of a movie's success. In this case, the determination of a director and the talent of an actor defied a producer's bias, creating a memorable piece of film history. We hope this inspires future filmmakers to take calculated risks for their artistic vision.
