What’s it about?

The sequel to the 2021 Mortal Kombat film, this time around Johnny Cage joins other fighters in the ultimate, no-holds-barred battle to defeat the dark rule of Shao Kahn, a powerful tyrant who threatens the very existence of the Earthrealm and its defenders.

What did we think?

Anthony Sherratt says: It’s rare that a sequel outshines its predecessor but it’s fun when it does. And fun is the keyword with Mortal Kombat 2. Yes it’s slick, pretty and full of some incredible fight sequences but what sets it apart is a joyously playful tone that runs throughout the film.

Whether it be the rampant pop culture references or the foul-mouthed irreverence of Australian humour on full display, Mortal Kombat 2 is the epitome of a good, fun, popcorn movie. 

Even better, the storyline is a clever continuation of the 2021 film that doesn’t fall into a simple fighting tournament. Nor does it embrace predictability or plot armor so don’t get too attached to the characters but the deaths are usually gory and – wonderfully – of the laughter-inducing variety.

Australian director Simon McQuoid has grown as a director and embraced fan feedback and while there is some fanboi service, the nostalgia is present without it dominating the screen time. 

In a movie based on a fighting game, it’s really the stunts and battles you want to focus on and thankfully the talented cast and crew serve up the perfect recipe of kitsch and action. Karl Urban has a great time as the cliched reluctant hero but it’s Josh Lawson who steals the show as the resurrected Kano. 

It’s not highbrow or perfect – some moments are held too long and it mightn’t age well – but as pure entertainment it ticks most of the boxes. It doesn’t take itself seriously and the crowded cinema will roar, groan and wince in a reminder that films are best when enjoyed with others.