genre: animation, action, martial arts, fantasy, video game adaptation
Mind you the story is as basic as they come but where some thoughtful attention is paid to the mythologies of the vast character roster in the videogame franchise. And with thoughtful I mean, just enough to inform and tell new viewers who is who. But also builds on what fans already know. So there are some nice surprises to be enjoyed. One other element of this film that will catch your eye is the animation. It's superb. Warner Bros. Animation did their best to make the combat look good. Plus they went all out on the blood and gore. I think this is the first time it's been shown like this in an adaptation. To me this makes sense since it's an essential part of the videogames and what made fans love the franchise in the first place. Most important of course is the action. It's absolutely gratifying. You actually get the chance to enjoy it and you will get a good idea why Scorpion is such a feared opponent.
This animated film also is proof that sometimes it's better to let things remain as they are, meaning animated. Not all videogames lend themselves for live action films. Actually most of them don't. Although one could argue that this animated film very easily could have been turned into a live action one. Preferably with the same cast as the original live action adaptation. Robin Shou and Keith Cooke might have aged I am sure they still can kick ass if they wanted to. Anyhow when you animate things you simply aren't as limited as one would with a live action film. Even with the CGI today. So it made sense to make this step.
If this film is supposed to be the pilot for the animated show that is promised then I am all on board. Or as the announcer says: FIGHT!
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