Ralph Macchio may have departed, but at least the fourth instalment of this singularly unremarkable series could still call on the services of Pat Morita. Even he must have questioned his loyalty during shooting, however, as a sense of déjà vu wafted over him. Essentially, this is a case of "same stunts, different sex", as future Oscar winner Hilary Swank becomes Morita's prize pupil in the wake of her parents' death in a car crash. A few pre-prom dance lessons are the only significant departure from the tried and tested chop-socky formula, although Michael Ironside is good value as Swank's sinister gym teacher.

Mr. Miyagi decides to take Julie, a troubled teenager, under his wing after he learns that she blames herself for her parents' demise and struggles to adjust with her grandmother and fellow pupils.