Best of the Best: Okay, I'm Crying Again (Spoilers!)

Okay, y'all, I just finished watching Best of the Best (the original, duh) and I'm a MESS. I knew going in it was cheesy 80s goodness, but I wasn't prepared for the EMOTIONS. Seriously, I'm blaming this movie for my puffy eyes tomorrow. The whole premise is pretty simple: US vs. Korea Tae Kwon Do team, but it's the individual stories that got me. Eric Roberts as Alex Grady, dealing with that shoulder injury and past failures? Gut-wrenching. And Chris, played by Phillip Rhee... ugh, my heart. Watching him grapple with the guilt over his brother's death, knowing he HAS to beat Dae Han? I was sobbing. Actually sobbing. That training montage? Okay, yeah, it's classic 80s. But seeing them come together as a team, overcoming their egos and actually supporting each other? Instant tears. I loved how Tommy Lee (played by Chris Penn, RIP) went from cocky jerk to supportive teammate. That arc was chefs kiss! And the final fight scene… I won't spoil it too much, but let's just say I needed a whole box of tissues. What I will say is that I thought it was going to be a lot like Karate Kid, but its more heavy-handed and emotional. There were some parts that were super corny, I'm not gonna lie. Like, the dialogue could be clunky at times, and some of the acting was... well, it was 80s acting. But honestly, it didn't even matter. The heart of the movie is so strong, and the message about forgiveness, redemption, and teamwork really hit home. Maybe it's because I'm a sucker for underdog stories, or maybe it's just the perfect blend of cheese and melodrama, but Best of the Best got me GOOD. Has anyone else ugly-cried during this movie? Please tell me I'm not alone! Also, should I subject myself to the sequels? Are they worth it, or will they just ruin the magic of the original? Let me know your thoughts!!