Karl Urban as Johnny Cage in Mortal Kombat 2: Internet's Reaction

Get ready, fans of brutal battles and iconic fatalities, because Mortal Kombat 2 is set to hit the big screen this fall. Following the 2021 reboot, the excitement and speculation around this sequel are palpable. From the film's budget to its potential box office performance, casting choices, and even possible release date shifts, the internet is buzzing with opinions and predictions. Let's dive into what the fans are saying about Mortal Kombat 2. Round 1, fight!

For those of you who might have missed it. Here is a first look at the Mortal Kombat 2 movie!

Includes shots of Johnny Cage (Karl Urban) Kitana, Shao Kahn and Scorpion! https://t.co/RenOSjHNg0 pic.twitter.com/4uoTdxQfdE

— Ed Boon (@noobde) March 17, 2025

The 2021 reboot introduced a new protagonist, Cole Young, played by Lewis Tan. However, many fans feel that this character, who serves as a gateway into the universe for new viewers, should take a backseat in the sequel. "I really enjoyed the remake except for the new character they created for no reason. Hopefully he takes a backseat in this one," one fan commented. Another hinted at a shift in focus, saying, "He isn't the main character anymore, Johnny is. [OK] I'm not sure if it's Johnny but a lot of leaks have said he isn't the MC anymore."

The spotlight seems to be shifting to Johnny Cage, portrayed by Karl Urban, who has received top billing and is prominently featured in promotional materials. "Johnny is the main character this time 100%. Urban got top billing on the poster they released and he’s prominently featured in the first promo images," a Redditor noted. Yet, Urban's casting has stirred some debate, especially regarding his age. "Who the hell made this thinking Karl Urban is the perfect guy for Johnny Cage?" one fan questioned, while another remarked, "I like Karl Urban but at 49 he is miscast and doesn't have the outlandish optimistic charisma that Cage has in the lore." Suggestions for alternative actors include Glen Powell, Chris Evans, Austin Butler, Jack Quaid, and The Miz. However, some fans defended Urban, saying, "Have you seen the movie yet? People said the same thing about Ledger being The Joker. While I’m not suggesting this movie or performance will be anywhere on that level, I think it's unfair to suggest Urban can't pull it off. The dude has been really good in a ton of very different roles."

The financial aspects of the sequel are also a hot topic. On r/BoxOffice, one fan predicted the film would bring in around $250 million. "If the budget stays reasonable, that wouldn’t be too bad," another responded. Optimism was even higher among some, with one user suggesting, "Under $300 million. But it’ll do huge on streaming. It doesn’t need no more than a 5-6 week long theater run."

Mortal Kombat's Bizarre History of Movie and TV Adaptations

10 ImagesThe budget of Mortal Kombat 2 was initially set to be less than the first film's $55 million, but strike delays blew it up. Filming was paused in July 2023 due to the SAG-AFTRA strikes but resumed in November 2023, concluding by January 2024.

Despite the anticipation, some fans are skeptical about the film's success. "Feel like this might bomb honestly. First one wasn’t even well received and I doubt people will be rushing out to see this sequel. Also weird late October release date," one fan suggested, proposing a different release strategy. "If I was WB I would push Zach Cregger’s Weapons up to late October and push this to January or February 2026." However, others believe Karl Urban's involvement, especially his role in The Boys, could boost its performance. "I think you’re underestimating how big The Boys is, it has 55 million international viewers. I think the movie will do solid even outside the U.S.," one user argued.

Excitement for the film is also evident among fans. "First one was good fun and I loved these silly action movies growing up," one Redditor shared. "Looking forward to this." Another fan added, "F—k me but I’m excited for it. I liked the first one. It was corny but it’s Mortal Kombat which isn’t high art." A third fan emphasized the potential of video game movies, saying, "This sub really needs to stop underestimating Video Game Movies."

Rumors are circulating that Mortal Kombat 2 might move to the August date currently held for Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another. "That would make more sense," one user noted. "The PTA movie would get a Venice premiere and awards season, while Mortal Kombat gets late summer." Another fan agreed, stating, "MK screams August, IMO."

The anticipation for Mortal Kombat 2 is undeniable. Whether fans are hopeful or skeptical, the discussions will continue until the film's release. One thing is certain: Mortal Kombat 2 is poised to deliver another round of thrilling action and iconic characters. K.O.

What do you think about Mortal Kombat 2? Let us know in the comments!