Episode Summary:

With the new Karate Kid: Legends movie hitting theaters on May 30, 2025, this episode is a masterclass in how martial arts school owners can harness the buzz to boost enrollments. Stephen Oliver shares his decades of marketing wisdom, including stories from past movie promotions like Enter the Dragon, Power Rangers, and The Karate Kid. Together with Duane and Allie, the conversation explores real-world strategies for creating visibility, foot traffic, and community engagement around the movie release—whether it’s a hit or a flop.

https://youtu.be/vwTym6L1jro

Key Takeaways:

Use the Movie’s MomentumMajor movie releases are marketing goldmines. Parents will be taking their kids to see Karate Kid: Legends, so ride that wave.

Get In Early with Local TheatersBuild relationships with theater managers now. Some will let you set up booths for free—others may require rental through national agencies.

It’s Not Just the Movie—It’s the MessageWhat worked about the original Karate Kid wasn’t just the fighting—it was the philosophy. Use that message in your marketing.

Be Proactive, Not PassiveDon’t just sit at a booth and wait for someone to talk. Have interactive elements (like prize wheels or a ninja mascot) and collect leads actively.

You Don’t Need a Perfect Movie—You Need a PlanWhether the movie is good or bad, it’s a talking point. You can reframe or reinforce the message of martial arts depending on the film’s impact.

Action Steps for School Owners:

Contact Your Local Theater This WeekAsk if you can set up a booth opening weekend (May 30–June 2) or even before that with previews. Bonus if you can do a private screening.

Create Karate Kid-Themed Referral EventsPlan events like “Bring a Buddy to the Movies” night, birthday parties, or buddy weeks using Karate Kid themes.

Design Movie-Themed Marketing AssetsUpdate rack cards, social ads, flyers, and banners with Karate Kid imagery and tie-ins. Bonus: Match the color scheme of the movie posters.

Build a Pre-Release BuzzPost on your social media with Karate Kid trivia, throwbacks, or countdowns. Get your students and parents excited.

Train Your TeamPrepare your staff with lead capture scripts, appointment-setting processes, and follow-up systems.

Plan for High VolumeIf your marketing hits, you’ll need systems in place to handle an influx of leads and intros. Make sure your front desk and instructors are ready.