DC Entertainment/WB Animation, 2023

Mortal Kombat Legends: Cage Match marks the pinnacle of writer Jeremy Adams’ journey through the Mortal Kombat Legends series, showcasing his enthusiasm for collaborating with Joel McHale as frequently expressed during the Realm Kast podcast. This film serves as the culmination of the Legends team’s collaborative efforts, weaving in several Easter eggs and playfully engaging with the franchise’s lore.

Drawing lore inspirations from Mortal Kombat X, the film immerses viewers in an ’80s fever dream, characterized by an animation style reminiscent of Moonbeam City or Patrick Nagel’s iconic art. At its core, it is an origin story for Johnny Cage, infused with humor that only Joel McHale can deliver, resulting in an amusing and entertaining experience.

Departing from the traditional Mortal Kombat Tournament narrative, Cage Match offers a refreshing take on the franchise by centering the story on Johnny Cage. This deviation allows the film to explore new storytelling avenues while still paying homage to the franchise’s rich mythology. By spotlighting a single character, the film demonstrates the versatility of the Mortal Kombat universe, showcasing its potential for diverse and compelling narratives beyond the confines of the overarching tournaments that we see in the video games. It’s a prime example of how Mortal Kombat can thrive in film and television formats by being a character-lead story, while still offering audiences a blend of humor, action, and nostalgia.

For fans of ’80s aesthetics, Mortal Kombat lore, or simply enjoyable movies, Cage Match is an absolute must-watch. With its blend of humor, homage, and inventive storytelling, the film captures the essence of what makes Mortal Kombat unique while charting new territory within its expansive universe. As the franchise continues to evolve, Cage Match stands as a shining example of how Mortal Kombat can transcend its origins and captivate audiences in exciting, new and fun ways. – Frazier