Mortal Kombat has been adapted into yet another movie, centering around the high stakes tournament for the universe! The main players are back and brutal as ever! Let’s consider the pros and cons of Mortal Kombat…
Pros: Firstly, the direction from Simon McQuoid is extremely impressive for his first feature film. Everything from the costume design to the CGI is incredibly on point. I also love that several action scenes transported me back to a time when I played these fighting games. Speaking of fighting, the choreography is especially fantastic and made even better with each character’s unique abilities! Lastly, I appreciate that this movie knows exactly what it wants to be. This is a gory, R rated action movie, that doesn’t mince words or shy away from its gruesome fatalities!
Cons: You have to accept that a movie based on a fighting video game, has only so much leeway when it comes to plot. Every beat in this film exists to pit different characters against each other. However, this goes back to my “pro” about this movie knowing exactly what it wants to be. Because even though this qualifies as a “turn off your brain” movie, there is solid character development here. And what is Mortal Kombat without it’s iconic characters? Lastly, I think more could have been done with the theme of living up to one’s potential. It’s briefly touched on for several of the characters, but only amounts to upgrades and wittier quips. It would’ve been nice to tie some heart into this theme by including Cole Young’s family more.
I give Mortal Kombat a B. It’s a thrilling action flick that embraces it’s videogame roots and emanates fanfare! If you’re even slightly fond of this franchise, you don’t want to miss this movie! Happy Watching!
GRADE:
B
6/10
Pros/Cons
- CGI
- Characters
- Direction
- Plot
- Theme
Where to Watch
- HBO Max with Subscription
- In Theaters!
“Get over here!”