The Karate Kids films inspired many people to take martial arts. Following the movies, the Netflix spin-off series, Cobra Kai, also did the same. With the intense fighting scenes, the series made the viewers feel surprised. However, it also arises the question if the actors were really fighting in those action-packed scenes. Or if they would use CGI to make it look real. To answer the same, the show’s stunt instructors, Ken Barefield and Don L. Lee revealed the truth behind the question. 

The spin-off series, Cobra Kai, is preparing to solve unanswered questions from the previous seasons. With some interesting scenes, there will be a lot of fights in the upcoming season as well. Intense fighting with several twists is one of the hardest things to do. However, there is a team who choreographs the perfect fight sequences. Ken Barefield and Don L. Lee talked to Gold Derby about creating the sequences. While talking about the difficulties and adorable moments from their experiences, they talked about the use of CGI in their work.

Despite big studios like Marvel using CGI and respecting their work, Barefield revealed they did not use CGI in Cobra Kai. They wanted to keep it as real as they could. The reason being they wanted to keep the essence of martial arts in the show honoring the original films. Therefore, said Lee, “There is nothing that says this part is going to be VFX.” Both stunt instructors revealed they pay attention to a lot of details while choreographing a fight. Therefore, when the viewers watch it, they can feel connected to it.

Talking about paying attention to the details, they explicitly revealed how they would create a scene where there is a lot of action involved.

How do Cobra Kai instructors create a perfect fight sequence?

When they get their script, Barefield and Lee go through it trying to understand the entire story and the context behind it. After doing so, they would come up with a plan following their conversations with the showmakers, who are supporting the writers’ strike currently, and the actors as well. After training the actors for the specific fight sequence, they execute their plan.

As Don revealed, the series cast regulars get a minimum of 1 to 5 fights per episode and they only had 10 days to complete the fitting choreography. Therefore, while executing the scene, while the viewers see the final product, the team would work simultaneously backstage. Moreover, their choreography keeps in mind the distinguished qualities of the characters as well.

Appreciating the hard work of their team, Barefield and Lee gave the viewers a glimpse of their hard work in making the show exciting with the thrilling fights. How do you feel about the revelations by the stunt instructors? Tell us in the comments below.