I’m fresh from binging season two of Cobra Kai. I can say that it is as strong as, if not a bit stronger than, season one. Where season one took the whole “the more things change, the more they remain the same” approach, season two seemed to take it even further into the reality of consequences. It gets a bit heavy, but let me break it down. 

Season one ends with the reappearance of Sensei Kreese from the original movies. His presence feels bad from the start, but he knows how to play on the Sensei/student relationship that he has with Johnny. Now, we have Daniel becoming obsessed with reviving and expanding Miyagi-Do Karate and how that frames his relationships, as well. As both dojos begin to grow, so does the rivalry and, with Kreese’s presence, it becomes exponentially more intense.

Season two does an amazing job of showing the major differences between the original beef and the modern one. Whereas Johnny and Daniel were forced to wait until the All Valley Tournament to fight it out, this generation has skirmishes all through the summer. From minor bullying to major vandalism and theft. The intensity grows until it reaches its ultimate conclusion, a brawl on the first day of school. As a result, lives are changed, consequences are felt and futures are in question. One of this show’s greatest strengths is how it says that regardless of who wins the fight, ultimately no one wins. Plus, pay special attention to episode six – it is one hell of a reunion and the entire episode is spot on!