Mortal Kombat Legends: Cage Match Review
The latest installment of the Mortal Kombat Legends series, Cage Match, takes audiences on a nostalgic trip back to the ’80s. Director Ethan Spaulding, known for his work on Scorpion’s Revenge, returns to helm this action-packed adventure centered around the popular character Johnny Cage. With its vibrant visuals and fast-paced fights, Cage Match delivers a thrilling experience that pays homage to the Miami Vice era. However, while it successfully tackles studio corruption and features bloody fatalities, it falls short of matching the quality of its predecessor.
Joel McHale reprises his role as Johnny Cage, bringing the perfect amount of wit and sarcasm to the character. In Cage Match, we witness Johnny embarking on an investigation to find his co-star Jennifer Grey, who has mysteriously disappeared. As he confronts a demonic conspiracy linked to Shinnok, we see Johnny’s introduction to the Netherrealm and other aspects of the Mortal Kombat universe. The film serves as an origin story for Johnny, creating an interesting dynamic given his previous appearances in the Legends movies.
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Cage Match features cleaner animation compared to its predecessor, Snow Blind, which had a rougher style. The bright and vibrant colors of Hollywood are beautifully reflected in the visuals, capturing the essence of Johnny’s flashy personality. While it may not match the level of detail or fluidity seen in Scorpion’s Revenge, this intentional choice creates a dreamlike experience that combines Mortal Kombat with the glitz and glamour of showbiz.
Throughout Cage Match, Johnny narrates the story, giving it a unique perspective. However, some of the jokes and interjections don’t always land, occasionally feeling unnecessary or distracting. Instead of relying on visual storytelling, the film often resorts to excessive exposition, assuming the audience needs constant explanations. It becomes predictable and basic, except for the moments when it takes shots at the greed and corruption within the movie industry.
In terms of Mortal Kombat elements, Cage Match deviates from the traditional tournament structure. While familiar characters make appearances, the emphasis on fatalities and body count is significantly reduced. This installment of the Legends series focuses more on Johnny’s humorous one-liners and ’80s pop culture references rather than replicating gameplay. As a result, the movie feels underwhelming until the third act, where Johnny faces off against Shinnok on Hollywood Boulevard.
Despite its entertaining action sequences, Cage Match falls short of the high bar set by Scorpion’s Revenge. The artwork lacks the intensity and fierceness of its predecessor, often resembling a safe Saturday morning cartoon. The inclusion of motivational pop songs with on-the-nose lyrics adds a comedic element but also highlights the movie’s attempt to parody cheesy action films, unintentionally becoming one itself.