Could This 1997 Video Game Movie Be the Ultimate Sequel Disaster?

Article Key Points

1997's Mortal Kombat: Annihilation is widely disliked due to its confusing plot and lackluster storytelling.

Mortal Kombat game enthusiasts were let down by the movie's inability to encompass the intriguing narratives of the game series, choosing instead to present a convoluted and unmemorable storyline. The film's subpar visual effects and disorganized sequences exacerbated its negative reception, solidifying its reputation as a despised entry in the franchise.

Video game movies often disappoint, especially those released in the nineties. This was especially true for the Mortal Kombat franchise. While the 1995 film adaptation was considered fun, the 1997 sequel, Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, was far from enjoyable. Attempting to incorporate elements from the third game in the series while adding unique twists, Annihilation proved to be a discouraging experience for many fans.

Critically, the original Mortal Kombat wasn't highly regarded, but compared to its sequel, it appeared Oscar-worthy. With various issues leading to several actors declining to reprise their roles, Annihilation is an intriguing film to study. While it lacks the brutal fatalities the series is known for, it compensates with recognizable characters and bewildering combat scenarios.

What is Mortal Kombat: Annihilation About?

Following Liu Kang and Earthrealm's triumphant victory in Shang Tsung's Mortal Kombat tournament, Shao Kahn decides to invade and conquer the realm. Utilizing a formidable lineup of well-known Mortal Kombat characters as his generals, including the likes of Sindel, Kitana's mother, Shao Kahn clearly expresses his intention to seize dominion over the realm. Resolute in ensuring that no one usurps control of the world, the heroes take the battle directly to Kahn. However, Johnny Cage's Shadow Kick proves futile against the formidable opponent. Within moments, Kahn overpowers Cage, leaving him helpless, and swiftly snaps the neck of the beloved character, instantly causing his demise.

The team of heroes comprising Liu Kang, Kitana, Sonya Blade, and Raiden retreat, recognizing the need for assistance in order to confront Kahn's power. They decide to split up, with Sonya searching for her partner Jax, while Liu Kang and Kitana set out to find Night Wolf. Meanwhile, Raiden seeks guidance from the Elder Gods. As expected in a Mortal Kombat film, there are numerous fights that occur throughout the heroes' individual journeys.

During their quest, Liu Kang and Kitana engage in a battle against a faction of Kahn's troops led by the cyborg Smoke. Fortunately, the new Sub-Zero arrives to aid Liu Kang in the fight, but an unexpected ambush by Scorpion disrupts the heroes' plans, leading to a showdown between Sub-Zero and Scorpion. Following a fierce confrontation on a collapsing ice bridge, Scorpion manages to abduct Kitana, taking her to Kahn and abruptly disappearing from the rest of the movie alongside Sub-Zero. Meanwhile, Sonya Blade successfully rescues Jax, explains the situation to him, and together they defeat the cyborg Cyrax.

The Elder Gods provide the familiar level of assistance for fans of the series, offering various potential solutions to the struggle. These solutions include reigniting the relationship between Kitana and Sindel, as well as directly defeating Shao Kahn. At this crucial moment, Raiden selflessly relinquishes his immortality to aid Earthrealm in their battle. Meanwhile, Liu Kang encounters Night Wolf, engages in combat and forges a friendship with Jade, while Sonya Blade faces off against Mileena. Eventually, the heroes regroup, but the villains are not far behind. Following some deliberation and interpersonal interactions, the group confronts Shao Kahn in Outworld, marking the beginning of the final phase of the film.

Why Is Mortal Kombat: Annihilation So Hated?

With a dismal 4% rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes and 24% from the general audience, it's safe to say that Mortal Kombat: Annihilation is far from being a beloved movie. One of the primary reasons for its widespread dislike is the stark contrast to the intricate and captivating storylines found in the Mortal Kombat games, which have been intriguing players since the 1990s. While the original film focused on a significant Mortal Kombat tournament, its sequel presented a convoluted narrative that leaves viewers struggling to comprehend the characters' motivations or their purpose in various locations. Even esteemed film critic Michael Saunders, from the Boston Globe, echoed these sentiments in his review.

"Mortal Kombat: Annihilation" disappoints with its lack of blood in both its exaggerated martial arts violence and weak storyline. The plot simplifies to Liu Kang's mission to defeat Shao Kahn using his impressive fighting skills, yet the journey through Earthrealm feels nonsensical. While it may be amusing to witness Scorpion mocking Liu Kang before vanishing, this fails to compensate for the underwhelming plot and perplexing sequences that only serve as transitions between fights. Regrettably, these criticisms, along with the film's subpar special effects, contribute to its widespread disapproval among critics and fans alike.

How Does Mortal Kombat: Annihilation End?

Heading towards Outworld, Liu Kang engages in a fierce battle against Baraka, a renowned henchman, with the aim of rescuing Kitana. Meanwhile, Raiden confronts a group of Reptiles, and the others engage in a clash with Sindel, although this encounter occurs off-screen. Unfortunately, the plan to reunite Sindel and Kitana proves unsuccessful. Adding to the plot twist, Jade unveils her allegiance to Kahn, ultimately meeting her demise for displeasing Shao Kahn himself. In a shocking revelation, it is revealed that Shao Kahn and Raiden are brothers, offspring of Shinnok. Raiden courageously challenges Shao Kahn, but tragically meets his demise, leaving Liu Kang as the ultimate leader of the remaining resistance.

As Liu Kang prepares to confront Kahn, Jax takes on Motaro and has an epiphany that his true strength lies within himself, rather than relying solely on enhancements from his cybernetic arm. This newfound discovery propels him to achieve victory. Concurrently, Sonya Blade defeats Ermac in what is considered the least formidable encounter with the character thus far. Additionally, Kitana triumphs over her own mother in an intense battle. Not to be outdone, Liu Kang taps into his animality and delivers a powerful blow to Kahn, despite Shinnok attempting to intervene.

Luckily, the Elder Gods manage to make themselves useful, halting Shinnok’s interference. They declare that the fate of the realms will be determined by the victorious warrior in Mortal Kombat. After a brief exchange, Liu Kang emerges triumphant, defeating Kahn. As a result, Shinnok is banished to Netherealm. With Kahn defeated, Earthrealm regains its former glory. Raiden is revived, Sindel finally reunites with her daughter, and the heroes return home to prepare for any potential future threats that may arise to challenge Earthrealm.

Mortal Kombat

Mortal Kombat is a renowned fighting game series that was first developed by Ed Boon and John Tobias for Midway Games in 1992. This franchise has gained fame for its excessive violence and special finishing moves known as fatalities, which introduce hilariously gory kills. Its tremendous popularity has led to its expansion into various mediums such as comic books, spin-off games, TV series, and numerous film adaptations, including both live-action and animated versions.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I have mixed feelings about the 1997 movie "Mortal Kombat: Annihilation." On the one hand, I can appreciate the effort put into bringing the popular video game franchise to life on the big screen. The movie features an impressive cast of martial artists and actors, including Robin Shou, Linden Ashby, and Talisa Soto. The fight scenes are well- choreographed and exciting, and the special effects are impressive for their time.

On the other hand, the movie suffers from a number of flaws that prevent it from being a truly great film. The plot is convoluted and difficult to follow, and the acting is often wooden and unconvincing. The movie also lacks the sense of humor that made the first "Mortal Kombat" movie so enjoyable.

Overall, I would say that "Mortal Kombat: Annihilation" is a disappointing sequel that fails to live up to the original film. However, it is still a fun and entertaining movie for fans of the franchise.