Is a Mortal Kombat 3 in the Works? Insights from the Film’s Director

The conclusion of this year’s Mortal Kombat 2 has left fans buzzing with questions. Will the recently defeated characters return? What really happened to Liu Kang after his showdown with Shao Kahn? And is a Mortal Kombat 3 movie on the horizon, as hinted?

At last year’s New York Comic Con, the screenwriter for Mortal Kombat 2 mentioned that the next installment in the franchise had already been greenlit by New Line and Warner Bros. However, the long-awaited release of Mortal Kombat 2 underperformed at the box office, raking in $129 million against a reported $80 million budget. While this is an improvement over the 2021 reboot, which earned $84 million after a simultaneous theater and HBO Max release, MK2’s box office performance doesn’t guarantee a sequel, especially given the current uncertainties surrounding Warner Bros.

Although Mortal Kombat 2 lacks a post-credits scene hinting at a sequel, it leaves several plot threads unresolved. In a discussion with the film’s director, Simon McQuoid, we sought clarity on Liu Kang’s fate and the potential for a third Mortal Kombat film.

[Ed. note: Spoilers ahead for Mortal Kombat 2.]

One of the standout moments in Mortal Kombat 2 is the intense showdown between a zombified Kung Lao and Liu Kang, set against the backdrop of the iconic Blue Portal. McQuoid crafted this fight to be visually balanced, placing it at the film’s midpoint. He aimed to highlight the emotional turmoil between the two former allies, a dynamic he hopes to delve deeper into in future narratives.

“Liu Kang and Kung Lao shared a unique bond,” McQuoid explained. “I don’t want to keep emphasizing the Blue Portal scene, but it was crucial because it reflected their relationship. This led us to a point where Liu Kang needed to have an ‘exit’ that aligned with his nobility and positive spirit. Ludi really nailed that performance.”

In a universe where death often feels inconsequential, what truly became of Mortal Kombat’s chosen hero?

While Liu Kang triumphs in that battle, he ultimately loses his “brother” Kung Lao and pledges to find a way to save him. However, the film’s conclusion leaves Liu Kang’s fate ambiguous. After sustaining fatal injuries from Shao Kahn, Liu transforms into a column of flame and vanishes.

“The way he was meant to exit was significant for such an important character,” McQuoid noted. “We wanted to create something unique and special. Each time, we aimed for a fresh take on character fates, keeping the audience guessing about what would happen next. The goal was to set the stage for the next chapter in their relationship, leaving viewers intrigued rather than feeling like, ‘Well, they both died, and now what?'”

“It was essential to ensure that we left doors open rather than closed,” McQuoid added. “We approached it similarly to the first Mortal Kombat, reminding ourselves not to get overconfident. The audience will let you know if there’s a demand for another installment. The priority has always been to stay true to the characters.”

While Mortal Kombat 2 may not have set the box office ablaze, its predecessor was a significant hit on streaming platforms. The long-term performance of the film on streaming and physical media could ultimately influence the decision for a Mortal Kombat 3. When asked about the current discussions surrounding this, McQuoid was noncommittal, suggesting it’s too soon to tell.

“I’m not sure I’m ready to share that just yet,” McQuoid chuckled. “It feels like Mortal Kombat 2 hasn’t completed its full life cycle. Let it run its course, and then feel free to ask me in a few months.”

Mortal Kombat 2 is available for digital rental and purchase, with a 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and DVD release set for July 28. A streaming release date on HBO Max has yet to be announced.