Jaden Smith confirmed for 'Karate Kid'

Jaden Smith will star in Columbia's reworking of the hit 1984 film The Karate Kid.

Smith, the son of actor Will, was first linked with the martial arts remake more than a year ago.

The Chris Murphy-scripted movie will loosely follow the plot of the original, which revolved around a young boy who learns to stand up to bullies with the help of mentor Mr. Miyagi.

Will Smith, who appeared alongside Jaden in The Pursuit Of Happyness, will produce the remake.

Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita starred in the first three Karate Kid movies, while the fourth was the first leading role for Hilary Swank.