‘Mortal Kombat’ Director Simon McQuoid on Sequel Plans, Major Deaths and Johnny Cage By NYPAA News on April 24, 2021. It not only helps us prepare for what to expect from the brash movie star, but also informs us on how the sequel could play out. Head to HBO Max now to watch the bloody, brutal new take on the fighting series. His power really comes out of the combination of the kunai blade in Netherrealm and the energy within. Future US, Inc. 11 West 42nd Street, 15th Floor, In the games, the original Sub-Zero died and was resurrected as the undead ninja Noob Saibot, which could be what McQuoid hints at. In a series of tweets, John Tobias, the co-creator of the gaming franchise, revealed that there was a secret system in place that allowed them to determine which characters were the most popular among players, and Cage simply did not make the cut. Then, we need a couple of joiner pieces that we know can lead us somewhere because there’s a treasure trove of stuff that’s just sitting there. If you look at “Mortal Kombat’s” evolution over the decades, that has evolved and grown beyond the idea of the tournament. New York, We gave ourselves a couple of rules. We had to be very specific with bringing those characters to life the right way, and they came with their own set of properties that we had to respect and amplify. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Well, yes, if you just look at the game, it’s exactly what the game has done in a really interesting way. 'Mortal Kombat' director Simon McQuoid talks sequel plans, major deaths and that ending. Johnny married Sonya in the games, and their daughter Cassie joined the roster in 2015's Mortal Kombat X. I’ve been so busy trying to calibrate this ensemble that I haven’t thought too much about any others beyond just understanding who people really love, who gets talked about a lot and who are really interesting characters. From an acting point-of-view, it’ll be interesting to see if Cage is positioned as the lead or co-lead alongside Lewis Tan’s Cole Young. I think we can perhaps learn from [the games] and try to do something interesting — again, there’s a big asterisk on all of this. I’m the same.” There’s some really interesting evolution and growth of these characters. Johnny Cage would be an asset to a Mortal Kombat sequel “if we’re blessed and lucky to have one,” Brooks says. The Miz Demands To Play Johnny Cage In Mortal Kombat Sequel. But then Johnny Cage was killed off in the sequel movie, Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, and was also missing from the roster for several games. Home » Entertainment News » The Miz Demands To Play Johnny Cage In Mortal Kombat Sequel. ", "Our strength is our diversity," he said. We didn’t really want to serve that. The most conspicuous absence from the 2021 release, though, may not be a household name to some. But then Johnny Cage was killed off in the sequel movie, Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, and was also missing from the roster for several games. Spoiler warning: the following contains spoilers for the Mortal Kombat movie! This has led to a lot of fan casting speculation in a potential sequel … It made sense to have a daughter and family aspect. He was always connected to Scorpion. But notably missing from the roster here is the slugger and action star, the center of Paul W.S. Director Simon McQuoid’s “Mortal Kombat… Mortal Kombat fans made an outcry about the absence of series mainstay Johnny Cage. First and foremost, expect another Mortal Kombat tournament. Action star Johnny Cage didn't go MIA in "Mortal Kombat" after all. That’s especially important given how Mortal Kombat killed off several big fighters during its runtime. McQuoid told Variety, “I don’t want death to be something that is inconsequential” and “certainly Sub-Zero has some opportunities.” In the end, we see Shang Tsung conspicuously retrieve Sub-Zero’s corpse in a puff of black smoke. "And early on felt uncomfortable having a white male lead kind of lead that charge in the first movie. Want to know more about the movie's kombatants? "We have so many characters from all over the world and actors around the world. … "[Mortal Kombat] has a very Asian feel to it," he explained. His Fatality, meanwhile, is pretty straightforward, at least compared to some of his spine-ripping peers: a swift uppercut that knocks his foe’s head clean off. WWE’s A-Lister wants in on that action. SPOILER WARNING: Do not read if you have not seen “Mortal Kombat,” available now in theaters and on HBO Max. The most obvious comes in the film’s final frame, which shows a movie poster for fictional Hollywood superstar and iconic “Mortal Kombat” video game character Johnny Cage. Is there a Johnny Cage actor yet? Brilliantly, the character was developed after a licensed fighting game featuring actor Jean-Claude Van Damme fell through. justjared.com - The new movie Mortal Kombat is out now and the film’s director Simon McQuoid is opening up about his possible plans for a sequel. The Miz has … Learn more, How an ending tease could see a new face introduced in the sequel. One of Cage’s most eye-watering moves is a split-legged punch to the groin. Several major characters die in the movie, but “Mortal Kombat” fans know that death isn’t permanent in the video game franchise. There were no other specific characters we really wanted to put in. The story came out of this idea that we didn’t just want to redo the first film. In a spoiler-filled conversation with Variety, McQuoid discusses sequel ideas, undead fighters and what other characters he’d like to see in a potential follow-up. Protagonist Cole Young (Lewis Tan) remarks that he’s off to Los Angeles in search of more Mortal Kombat fighters, directly setting up a possible sequel. To serve a tournament idea, you have to build it a certain way. That also includes a closer look at what the series’ console (and arcade) entries can teach us about how Cage could slide into the ensemble of kombatants thirsty for blood. After all, a poster-sized tease may promise much, but there’s a whole video game history beyond that just waiting to be mined. By the first movie’s ending, Raiden has tasked his champions with seeking out more fighters to defend Earthrealm in the upcoming competition – and Cole Young is specifically looking for Johnny Cage. What other characters would you want to include in a potential sequel? With Cole, we had some license. Please refresh the page and try again. Related: Mortal Kombat viewers spot mistake about iconic video-game line in movie's subtitles "Sequels are a bit tricky because you can't totally … Send News Tip. As the only original MK fighter not appearing in the upcoming reboot, Cage has been a hot topic of discussion in the leadup to release.Producer Todd Garner and director Simon McQuoid have both given convincing justifications for Cage… Mortal Kombat is out and there is a rumor that more films could be on the way. Mortal Kombat Co-Creator Endorses WWE's The Miz As Johnny Cage For Sequel. Also expect fireworks (or, Cage pulling out some ‘smooth moves’ that will invariably get him punched) between Cage and Sonya Blade (Jessica McNamee). Always one for a moment to shine in the spotlight, Cage mugs down the camera and smirks with his sunglasses on. Sub-Zero (Taslim) is burnt to a crisp by Scorpion (Hiroyuki Sanada) and Kung Lao (Max Huang) has his soul sucked out by master villain Shang Tsung (Chin Han). Sequels are a bit tricky because you can’t totally ignore them, because that wouldn’t be a smart move, but none of us used the “s-word.” We’d never talk about it in any depth whatsoever because we feel like we have to put all our energy into this film. Often falling on the side of good – but no stranger to butting heads with other alpha males in his vicinity – Johnny Cage is best characterized by his relationship with Special Forces soldier, Sonya Blade. "Our strength is our diversity," he said. GamesRadar+ is supported by its audience. Visit our corporate site. NY 10036. Recently, I had a chance to talk to Mortal Kombat screenwriter Greg Russo, who shared exactly why Johnny Cage is missing from the new movie. His character evolved because with the other characters, there was less sideways movement. If we do get to that, and I’m not saying we will, I’m just saying if — big “if” — then we’ll go down that path. There has also been much discussion on why "Mortal Kombat" staple Johnny Cage was noticeably absent from the film. SPOILER WARNING: Do not read if you have not seen “Mortal Kombat,” available now in theaters and on HBO Max. Leave comment. Variety and the Flying V logos are trademarks of Variety Media, LLC. While fans have largely been positive about the action flick, there has been an outcry about the absence of series mainstay Johnny Cage. ‘Mortal Kombat’ reboot is all set for a release later this month and fans are craving some Johnny Cage. Here’s why. Director Simon McQuoid’s “Mortal Kombat” builds the groundwork for what could be a gory action franchise, and star Joe Taslim already told Variety that he’s signed up for four more movies if Warner Bros. decides to go ahead with additional installments. However, producer Todd Garner has been considering bringing back Johnny Cage into the scene albeit not in the reboot. Spoilers ahead! The feeling was that he would throw it out of balance slightly. There’s a lot of interesting characters, story and material to work with. Starting the conversation of Johnny Cage, many noted that the name of Ryan Reynolds came up and it was suggested by none other than Max Huang, who plays Kung Lao in the film. Hopefully, the sequel won't be called Mortal Kombat: Citizen Cage, because that's … “Our strength is our diversity,” he says. So I guess I don’t want death to be something that is inconsequential. That’s partly down to Johnny Cage’s video game backstory, one that has evolved throughout the years and makes him a surprisingly complex figure that belies his movie-star good looks. Our Japanese thunder god is played by a Japanese person. by H Jenkins on April 24, 2021 April 24, 2021 at 12:07 pm. Continuing the conversation during an interview, Mortal Kombat's cast revealed the characters they would want to see in the sequel, and they were on point. It’s a blueprint that could serve well for Mortal Kombat 2: Johnny Cage’s larger-than-life persona works as the perfect foil for a minor antagonist. Photo Credit: WWE Mortal Kombat released yesterday on HBO Max and in theaters. The idea of a tournament within a script informs a certain structure and rhythm. Below, we’ll preview the potential presence of Johnny Cage in Mortal Kombat 2 – or even a potential spinoff movie – and what it all could mean moving forward. His initial appearance saw him tricked by Shang Tsung – who is still very much alive in the Mortal Kombat movie universe – to help in his nefarious plans. He also noted that holding Cage back for a sequel was also a big incentive, perhaps hinting that – yes – the world is going to know Johnny Cage’s name sooner rather than later. The Miz made it very clear that he wants the role of Johnny Cage in the next Mortal Kombat movie.He has some support in getting this role as well. In the reboot continuity of Mortal Kombat they even have a (time-traveling) daughter called Cassie. I get asked about Kitana just as much as Johnny Cage. Let’s treat him as a game character and film character.” It was a constant process of building him and to have him born out of blood. And we’re not just talking crimson here. That being said, if the fans want another one, that’s not for us to decide; that’s for the fans to decide. That’s where we come in. Get the best gaming deals, reviews, product advice, competitions, unmissable gaming news and more! ). WWE star The Miz says he should be Johnny Cage in any Mortal Kombat sequels, with the character poised for an appearance. Here’s how the new MK movie sets up a sequel, and all the hints about Johnny Cage… Producer Todd Garner explained at a Mortal Kombat press conference (via ComicBook.com) that it was a matter of tone and inclusivity. That’s a reason he got put back on the bench. There are some fantastic female characters in “Mortal Kombat.” And I think we can bring balance there, to a better extent. GamesRadar+ is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Cage is a strong personality that craves the spotlight; it stands to reason that the Mortal Kombat movie gives it to him. Ahead of Mortal Kombat’s release I had an opportunity to chat with the cast of the movie. So we haven’t really dug into it; we just know we’re very privileged that’s sitting there. Has The Miz just talked himself into a part in a Mortal Kombat movie? There was a problem. It doesn’t always mean that character comes back, “Oh, I’ve been reincarnated. At the time of writing this, "Mortal Kombat" and "Johnny Cage" are trending, and unfortunately it looks like people aren't too happy. The Kombat roster in this installment includes tons of iconic names -- like Goro, Mileena, Sub-Zero and more -- but one character from the video games is notably missing: movie star Johnny Cage. Who plays Johnny Cage in the Mortal Kombat sequel? GamesRadar+'s Entertainment Writer. Normalizing the diversity of heroes is good for our society, and adding Johnny Cage to the mix is going to be a good thing.". The reason [Johnny Cage] is not in this original film is he’s such a giant personality that he almost has his own gravitational field. The popular character … The popular character … ‘Mortal Kombat’ Director Talks Johnny Cage & Sequel Plans - Flipboard That’s obviously essential within the DNA of “Mortal Kombat,” and it’s one of the fundamentals, if you look at where the story has gone. Mechad Brooks, who played Jax, told Inverse that Johnny Cage would be an asset to a Mortal Kombat sequel "if we’re blessed and lucky to have one. Mortal Kombat Ending Explained: Sequel Plans, Deaths and Johnny Cage – Variety The design eventually morphed into what we now know as Johnny Cage. SPOILER WARNING: Do not read if you have not seen “Mortal Kombat,” available now in theaters and on HBO Max. So it was a couple of reasons that came to it playing out in the way it did. The fans were asking for it, and the creators delivered: Johnny Cage is heading to the Mortal Kombat movie universe. Are there any plans or ideas you have for a sequel? by … Best OLED TV 2021 - get the best model for you out of the expanding OLED range, Best QLED TV guide: get one of the brightest and best TVs this year, Astro headset guide: premium audio and sheer quality in headset form. Mortal Kombat Reboot Has the Miz Demanding to Play Johnny Cage in Mortal Kombat 2. Here's our Mortal Kombat movie character guide. © Copyright 2021 Variety Media, LLC, a subsidiary of Penske Business Media, LLC. No news yet on which star actor will be playing star actor Johnny Cage – but he’s certainly going to be a major player in the sequel. It just felt Hollywoodish to me." If Mortal Kombat is a hit for HBO Max and Warner Bros., we’re definitely getting Mortal Kombat 2. Johnny Cage has been heavily requested by fans for a Mortal Kombat sequel, but the character might be better introduced through a spinoff movie instead. Johnny Cage is one of the main characters in the Mortal Kombat game series, first introduced in 1992 as one of the original seven player characters. This 2021 film is a reboot of the 1995 Mortal Kombat film, and that movie received a sequel two years later: 1997’s Mortal Kombat: Annihilation. ‘Mortal Kombat’ Director Talks Johnny Cage & Sequel Plans The new movie Mortal Kombat is out now and the film's director Simon McQuoid is opening up about his possible plans for a sequel. Return to Kombat? Mechad Brooks, who played Jax, told Inverse that Johnny Cage would be an asset to a Mortal Kombat sequel "if we’re blessed and lucky to have one." Lover of all things Nintendo, in a tortured love/hate relationship with Crystal Palace, and also possesses an unhealthy knowledge of The Simpsons (which is of no use at parties). So I think there are opportunities there, and certainly Sub-Zero has some opportunities. Yes, we'll be getting Johnny Cage in Mortal Kombat 2 (judging by the first movie's final scene) already, so introducing another Cage might be overkill. Often outspoken and cocky, he’s one of Mortal Kombat’s most popular fighters and is a mainstay of the series, first appearing in the original game way back in 1992. Was he always envisioned to be a descendant of Scorpion? Cage, though, later teams up with Raiden and assists Earthrealm’s champions. © But he might not be as receptive as the likes of Sonya Blade and Jax were. I guess I’d like to shift it to be a little more female. That is something I certainly thought about as we discussed this story and what that means. As for his fighting style, it’s certainly… unconventional. Is it safe to say being dead might not mean someone is actually dead in this universe? 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