Martial arts fans and eighties babies enter the dojo for one last hurrah as the third part, "Cobra Kai Season 6," arrives on Netflix. When we last left, Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio), Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka), and their students—Miguel Diaz (Xolo Maridueña), Robby Keene (Tanner Buchanan), Samantha LaRusso (Mary Mouser), Demetri (Gianni Decenzo), Hawk (Jacob Bertrand), Kenny (Dallas Dupree Young and Devon (Oona O'Brien) there were in the middle of another dojo battle.
In the same arena, Sensei John Kreese (Martin Kove) was attempting to end his former friend turned enemy Terry Silver (Thomas Ian Griffith) once and for all. However, amid the showdowns, Cobra Kai's student Kwon lost his life when he ended up on the wrong side of a dagger. Johnny also find himself facing with fellow alpha male Sensei Wolf (Lewis Tan).
Part 3 of the final season commences following the significant tragedy, during which Daniel has resolved to discontinue his involvement in karate permanently. Meanwhile, his senior students are preparing to conclude their high school experience and transition into adulthood. The finale of Season 6 demonstrates a marked improvement over Part 2, as it effectively emphasizes the foundational elements that have historically contributed to the franchise's success.
Whether on the mat or in real life, all of the characters have their stories wrapped up, and fans will appreciate callbacks to the film that started it all, a nod to "Rocky III" and Johnny Lawrence finally coming full circle as a man and martial artist. While I can't go into detail, there is an excellent moment between William Zabka and Martin Kove in the second to last episode, which is some of the best acting both men have showcased for the entire franchise.
Ralph Macchio delivers his usual quirks as longtime hero Daniel LaRusso. His arc also wraps up as he discovers the truth about Miyagi's past, learns to let go of his baby girl, and forms an unbreakable bond with his former bully. Similarly, the other returning adult cast members all get solid closure to their storylines. Lewis Tan delivers another great villain turn as Sensei Wolf, and I hope this opens up the door for more antagonist roles.
The sole issue with Part 3 of Season 6 is that one of my favorite characters, Kenny, didn't get much screen time. Additionally, longtime fans may be disappointed that Hilary Swank's character, Julie Pierce, doesn't appear or is even mentioned. Nonetheless, it has been a great ride with the series, and I hope the creative team can bring their magic to another '80s franchise.
Final Grade: B+
Part 3 of "Cobra Kai" Season 6 is available to stream now
Comments