Rocky
Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burt Young
A small-time Philadelphia boxer gets a supremely rare chance to fight the world heavyweight champion in a bout in which he strives to go the distance for his self-respect.
Why you'll love it
While not directly related, this film shares themes of perseverance and mentorship, focusing on an underdog boxer who trains hard to achieve his dreams.
The Karate Kid
Ralph Macchio, Pat Morita, Elisabeth Shue
Recently relocated from NJ to LA, Daniel becomes the target of a gang of Cobra Kai dojo students. When Mr. Miyagi saves him with expert Karate skills, Daniel convinces him to teach him to defend himself, and put his bullies in the...
Why you'll love it
A classic coming-of-age story about a teenager who learns karate to defend himself and ultimately finds a mentor in Mr. Miyagi.
Never Back Down
Sean Faris, Djimon Hounsou, Amber Heard
A frustrated and conflicted teenager arrives at a new high school to discover an underground fight club, and meets a classmate who begins to coerce him into fighting.
Why you'll love it
A modern take on martial arts, this film follows a teenager who learns mixed martial arts to defend himself and gain confidence.
The Karate Kid Part II
Pat Morita, Ralph Macchio, Pat E. Johnson
Daniel accompanies his mentor, Mr. Miyagi, to Miyagi's childhood home in Okinawa. Miyagi visits his dying father and confronts his old rival, while Daniel falls in love and inadvertently makes a new rival of his own.
Why you'll love it
The sequel follows Daniel and Mr. Miyagi as they travel to Okinawa, where Daniel learns more about karate and his mentor's past.