The sequel to 2021's gory, garish big-screen adaptation of the popular fighting game Mortal Kombat was inevitable, not just due to industry norms or the current heat of video game IP, but because of a crucial missing element. The first film, a predictable string of fight scenes loosely tied together by a plot, famously withheld the actual Mortal Kombat tournament, frustrating fans. Mortal Kombat II finally delivers the tournament, yet it remains underwhelming.
A Disappointing Follow-Up
The original film, released during Warner Bros.' pandemic-era simultaneous streaming strategy, performed modestly in theaters but became HBO Max's most-streamed movie of 2021, surpassing titles like Dune. This success hinted that the franchise might be best enjoyed at home with low expectations. Mortal Kombat II receives a wider theatrical release, but its junkiness feels less charming and more distracting on the big screen. The film attempts to justify its title by including the tournament, but it lacks the spectacle needed for an IMAX experience.
Thin Plot and Incoherent Lore
The story is wafer-thin yet convoluted, burdened with exposition about realms and amulets that worked as background in the games but fail as narrative. The plot follows returning heroes Sonya Blade (Jessica McNamee) and Jax (Mehcad Brooks) recruiting washed-up action star Johnny Cage (Karl Urban) to save the world. While the concept of a Jean-Claude Van Damme type proving himself in real combat is amusing, the script by Jeremy Slater (of 2015's Fantastic Four) lacks humor. The tone swings between earnest and self-aware, with awkward emotional moments clashing with parodies of 80s action films.
Underwhelming Action
The fight scenes, the main draw for audiences, are numerous but frustratingly unexciting. Director Simon McQuoid replicates the game's brutal gore, but the buildup to each impaling fails to engage. Without interactive gameplay, the choreography feels choppy, and the stakes are meaningless since death is not permanent in this universe. The result is a surprisingly boring experience.
Cheap Visuals and Lackluster World-Building
The various realms visited are poorly realized, failing to transition from video game to cinema screen. The film exudes a cheap, direct-to-video quality with hammy acting, stilted dialogue, chintzy effects, a tinny score, and Halloween-costume aesthetics. Unlike successful video game adaptations like Minecraft, Mario, and Sonic, Mortal Kombat II lacks the raucous fun that should accompany its campiness.
Mortal Kombat II will likely perform well at the box office due to brand recognition, but it's another loss for discerning viewers. The film releases in Australian cinemas on May 7 and in the US and UK on May 8.
