Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge (2020) Review: A Brutal and Faithful Adaptation

Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge (2020) is an animated feature film directed by Ethan Spaulding and produced by Warner Bros. Animation. Based on the legendary Mortal Kombat video game franchise, this R-rated animated film focuses on one of the series’ most iconic characters, Hanzo Hasashi, better known as Scorpion. The film delivers a gripping origin story, intense fight sequences, and the over-the-top violence that fans expect from the franchise.

Plot Summary

The story follows Hanzo Hasashi (voiced by Patrick Seitz), a skilled ninja from the Shirai Ryu clan, whose family and clan are massacred by Sub-Zero and the Lin Kuei. Left for dead, Hanzo is sent to the Netherrealm, where he makes a pact with the sinister sorcerer Quan Chi in exchange for vengeance. Reborn as Scorpion, he enters the Mortal Kombat tournament with a singular goal: revenge.

Parallel to Scorpion’s journey, the film also follows classic characters such as Liu Kang, Sonya Blade, and Johnny Cage, who are recruited by Raiden to participate in the Mortal Kombat tournament and prevent Earthrealm’s destruction at the hands of Shang Tsung. As these characters battle through the tournament, their fates intertwine with Scorpion’s relentless quest for revenge.

Strengths of Scorpion’s Revenge

1. A Faithful Adaptation for Fans

One of the biggest strengths of Scorpion’s Revenge is its faithfulness to the source material. From iconic character designs to signature moves and fatalities, the film perfectly captures the spirit of Mortal Kombat. Fans will appreciate the numerous references, classic one-liners, and the sheer brutality that mirrors the games.

2. Stunning and Brutal Animation

The animation style is vibrant and fluid, enhancing the impact of each fight scene. The film does not shy away from violence, delivering gruesome X-ray moves similar to the ones seen in the games. This attention to detail makes every fight sequence feel dynamic and visceral.

3. Strong Character Portrayals

Patrick Seitz delivers an emotionally charged performance as Scorpion, capturing his pain, rage, and determination. Joel McHale’s portrayal of Johnny Cage adds comic relief, balancing the darker elements of the story. The supporting characters, including Liu Kang and Sonya Blade, stay true to their classic representations.

4. A Well-Paced and Engaging Narrative

Unlike previous Mortal Kombat adaptations that struggled with storytelling, Scorpion’s Revenge finds a strong balance between action and character development. The film effectively weaves Scorpion’s tragic backstory into the tournament narrative without feeling disjointed.

Weaknesses of Scorpion’s Revenge

1. Limited Screen Time for Some Characters

While the film does a great job of centering Scorpion’s story, it does so at the expense of other main characters. Liu Kang, who is traditionally the protagonist of the franchise, takes a backseat to Scorpion’s revenge arc. Fans of other characters might feel their favorites are underutilized.

2. Predictable Storyline

For longtime fans of Mortal Kombat, the film’s plot offers little in terms of surprises. The revenge narrative is engaging but follows a familiar formula. While well-executed, it does not introduce many new elements to the Mortal Kombat mythos.

The Brutality Factor: Does It Go Too Far?

Mortal Kombat is known for its extreme violence, and Scorpion’s Revenge fully embraces this aspect. The fatalities and brutal fight sequences push the boundaries of animated violence, making it one of the most graphic animated films in recent years. While this is a highlight for hardcore fans, it may be too intense for casual viewers unfamiliar with the franchise’s signature gore.

Critical Reception and Audience Response

Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge received largely positive reviews from fans and critics. It holds a solid rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with praise directed at its faithfulness to the games, animation quality, and action sequences. Many fans consider it one of the best adaptations of Mortal Kombat, especially compared to live-action attempts.

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Mortal Kombat Fans

Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge is a thrilling, action-packed film that delivers everything a Mortal Kombat fan could want. With its stunning animation, brutal fights, and a compelling take on Scorpion’s origin, it stands as one of the best adaptations of the franchise. While it may not appeal to newcomers or those who prefer less violent storytelling, for fans of Mortal Kombat, this is a must-watch.

Final Rating: 8.5/10