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Matinee Monday: Mortal Kombat (w/ Cameron Esposito)

By Earwolf

Dive into the arcade-to-cinema transition with the "How Did This Get Made?" podcast, where hosts Paul Scheer, Jason Mantzoukas, and June Diane Raphael, along with guest Cameron Esposito, examine the 1995 box office sensation, "Mortal Kombat." This episode delves into the movie's surprising commercial triumph, as it punched its way to $23 million on its debut weekend, securing its title as a widely-received theatrical success. The episode unpacks the film's early adoption of CGI and practical effects that brought iconic characters like Goro and Reptile to life, despite technological limitations of the era.

As the hosts and advert segment explore the world of "Mortal Kombat," they dissect its characters and the high-stakes plot centered around a mystical tournament of earth warriors versus otherworldly brawlers. The panel discusses how the movie honored its video game roots, featuring key characters and special moves, while also acknowledging deviations from the source material. Amazon fan reviews are highlighted, underscoring the enduring love and nostalgia for the film's action-packed combat and cultural significance, which to this day resonates with the generation that grew up with "Mortal Kombat" both as a game and a groundbreaking cinematic adventure.

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Matinee Monday: Mortal Kombat (w/ Cameron Esposito)

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Matinee Monday: Mortal Kombat (w/ Cameron Esposito)

1-Page Summary

Mortal Kombat movie release and success

The "Mortal Kombat" movie, released in 1995, was a box office hit, grossing $23 million on its opening weekend and achieving a worldwide gross of $122 million. It swiftly rose to become the top movie in theaters, indicating a strong audience reception that led to its commercial success.

Special effects and costumes used in the Mortal Kombat movie

The film utilized early CGI technology for characters like Goro and Reptile, pushing the boundaries of the era's visual effects. Goro, in particular, was a mix of CGI, practical effects, and possibly reused props from the Ninja Turtles movies. The costumes, although limited by technology at the time, combined animatronics and simpler designs that sometimes showed connected limbs moving together, such as Goro's arms.

Characters and plot of the Mortal Kombat movie

The storyline follows a mystical tournament that pitches humans against magical creatures in a battle of good versus evil, though it leaves some structural details unclear. Central characters include Johnny Cage, a film star proving his martial arts prowess; Sonya Blade, a soldier avenging her partner's death; and Liu Kang, facing personal demons in the form of Shang Tsung, the soul-consuming sorcerer. Villains like Shang Tsung, and the formidable Goro, are key opponents in the tournament narrative.

Relation of the movie to the Mortal Kombat video game

The movie takes inspiration from the Mortal Kombat video game series, translating its core premise to the big screen. Recognizable characters and special moves from the game, including Lord Raiden's lightning abilities and Johnny Cage's signature groin punch, are featured. Though there are similarities and homages to the game, the portrayal of certain elements, including the effectiveness of special moves and iconic catchphrases, differs between the mediums, with no in-depth critical reception comparison provided.

Reviews praising the movie

Amazon reviewers celebrate "Mortal Kombat" with nostalgia and affection, offering high praise for its blend of action, humor, and impact on their personal passion for martial arts. They honor the movie for its fight sequences, character portrayal, and the successful transition of elements from the video game. Despite potential criticisms from newer audiences, the film maintains a cherished place in the hearts of its original fans, who hold it in high esteem as part of their childhood memories.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • In the 1995 "Mortal Kombat" movie, CGI (Computer-Generated Imagery) technology was used to create characters like Goro and Reptile. CGI involves using computer software to generate realistic images and visual effects, allowing filmmakers to bring fantastical creatures to life on screen. Goro, a four-armed warrior, and Reptile, a reptilian humanoid, were brought to the screen using a combination of CGI, practical effects, and creative design techniques. This blend of technology and artistry helped enhance the visual impact of these characters in the film.
  • In the 1995 "Mortal Kombat" movie, the character Goro was brought to life using a combination of CGI (computer-generated imagery), practical effects, and possibly reused props from other movies. This approach involved blending digital effects with physical elements to create a more realistic and dynamic character on screen. The use of practical effects alongside CGI helped enhance Goro's appearance and movements, making him a memorable and visually striking character in the film. This combination of techniques was a creative solution to achieve the desired look and performance for Goro in the movie.
  • The reference to limited technology for costumes at the time in the context of the "Mortal Kombat" movie suggests that the visual effects and animatronics available in the mid-1990s were not as advanced as today's standards. This limitation may have impacted the complexity and realism of the costumes and character designs in the film. The use of animatronics and simpler designs was a common approach to bring characters to life on screen, despite the technological constraints of the era. The mention of connected limbs moving together, such as Goro's arms, indicates the challenges faced in creating seamless and intricate costume movements with the available technology.
  • The "Mortal Kombat" movie draws inspiration from the Mortal Kombat video game series, adapting its central premise and characters for the big screen. Recognizable elements from the game, such as characters' special moves and abilities, are featured in the movie. While the film pays homage to the game, there are differences in how certain aspects are portrayed between the two mediums. The movie aims to capture the essence of the video game's universe and characters while presenting them in a cinematic narrative.
  • In the "Mortal Kombat" movie, certain elements like special moves and catchphrases from the video game are portrayed differently. This means that while the movie draws inspiration from the game, it may not always replicate these elements exactly as they appear in the game. The differences in portrayal could be due to creative choices made during the adaptation process to suit the cinematic medium. These variations can lead to distinct interpretations of familiar game elements in the movie adaptation.
  • The lack of in-depth critical reception comparison between the "Mortal Kombat" movie and the video game means that there is no detailed analysis or evaluation directly comparing how critics viewed and assessed the movie in relation to the video game. This comparison could have explored how well the movie captured the essence of the game, its characters, special moves, and overall tone, and how these elements were received by critics and fans. Such a comparison could have delved into the differences in storytelling, character development, and the overall impact of the movie compared to the video game.

Counterarguments

  • The box office success of the "Mortal Kombat" movie does not necessarily equate to it being a high-quality film; commercial success can sometimes be more indicative of effective marketing and a built-in fan base rather than critical acclaim.
  • While the movie may have been the top movie in theaters at the time, this does not guarantee that it has aged well or that it would be received similarly if released today, given changing audience tastes and standards for special effects.
  • The early CGI technology used for characters like Goro and Reptile, while groundbreaking for its time, may appear dated to modern audiences accustomed to more advanced and realistic visual effects.
  • The mix of CGI and practical effects, including the use of possibly reused props, could be seen as a cost-saving measure rather than a purely artistic choice, potentially detracting from the originality of the film's design.
  • The costumes and animatronics, while innovative, might be criticized for their lack of realism or for betraying the limitations of the technology of the time.
  • The storyline's mystical tournament and the battle of good versus evil could be viewed as a cliché or simplistic narrative that lacks depth and originality.
  • The characters, while central to the plot, may be criticized for being one-dimensional or for not having fully fleshed-out backstories, which could make them less compelling to some viewers.
  • The movie's inspiration from the video game series might be seen as a double-edged sword, with some fans of the games possibly feeling that the film did not stay true enough to the source material.
  • The portrayal of special moves and catchphrases from the video game could be criticized for not capturing the essence or excitement of the game, potentially disappointing hardcore fans.
  • Reviews on Amazon, while positive, represent a subjective and potentially biased perspective, often influenced by nostalgia, and may not reflect a critical consensus or the opinions of a broader audience.
  • The cherished status of the film among original fans does not preclude the possibility that new viewers might not share the same affection, possibly due to evolving standards in filmmaking and storytelling.

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Matinee Monday: Mortal Kombat (w/ Cameron Esposito)

Mortal Kombat movie release and success

The 1995 release of the movie "Mortal Kombat" emerged as a significant success in the box office.

Critical reviews praising the movie

While specific critical reviews have not been provided, the success metrics speak for themselves. The film saw an impressive opening weekend, grossing $23 million, and went on to secure a substantial worldwide gross of $122 million. Its performance wa ...

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Mortal Kombat movie release and success

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The success metrics mentioned, such as the opening weekend gross of $23 million and a worldwide gross of $122 million, are financial indicators of the movie's performance at the box office. These figures reflect the amount of money the movie earned within specific timeframes and across global markets, showcasing its popularity and commercial viability. Box office success is of ...

Counterarguments

  • Box office success does not necessarily equate to a positive critical reception; a film can perform well financially while still being poorly received by critics.
  • The number one spot at the box office is often a reflection of marketing and competition at the time of release rather than a measure of the film's long-term impact or quality.
  • Audience reception can be complex, and box office numbers may not fully capture the diversity of audience opinions, including those who may have been dissatisfied with the film.
  • The financial success of a film does not always reflect its artistic merit or contribution to the medium of cinema.
  • The longevity of a film's popularity and its cultural impact are not solely determined by its initial box office performance ...

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Matinee Monday: Mortal Kombat (w/ Cameron Esposito)

Special effects and costumes used in the Mortal Kombat movie

The Mortal Kombat movie stands as an example of the burgeoning era of CGI in cinema, where the technology was nascent and the integration of actors' performance with CGI was still a developing craft.

CGI used for characters like Goro and Reptile

The movie deployed early CGI techniques that shaped characters like Goro and Reptile. Due to the infancy of the technology, actors' reactions to CGI characters did not always convincingly match the ensuing effects on screen. A CGI character resembling a little lizard, for instance, is animated from a statue, indicating the use of CGI to bring non-human characters to life.

Costumes and animatronics used in combination with CGI

Goro, a central CGI character, is introduced in a complex blend of effects, combining close-up shots of an arm, possible techniques where one person stood on another's shoulders, and perhaps even the use of claymation or miniatures to bring the multi-armed fighter to the screen. The podcast hosts also contemplate the possib ...

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Special effects and costumes used in the Mortal Kombat movie

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The integration of actors' performance with CGI involves combining live-action footage of actors with computer-generated imagery to create seamless interactions between real actors and digital elements in a scene. This process requires actors to perform in front of green screens or with motion capture technology to later have CGI elements added around or interacting with them during post-production. The goal is to make the CGI characters or effects appear as if they are part of the same world as the live actors, enhancing the overall visual storytelling of the film. This technique is crucial in creating believable and immersive cinematic experiences, especially when portraying fantastical or non-human characters.
  • The CGI techniques used for characters like Goro and Reptile in the Mortal Kombat movie were early and rudimentary due to the technology's infancy at the time. The actors' interactions with these CGI characters sometimes lacked seamless integration, as the technology was still evolving. The CGI was used to bring non-human characters, such as a lizard-like creature, to life on screen. Goro, a central CGI character, was created using a combination of effects, including close-up shots, possible practical techniques, and potentially repurposed props.
  • Goro in the Mortal Kombat movie was created using a combination of practical effects and CGI. The character involved a mix of animatronics, miniatures, and possibly repurposed props to bring the multi-armed fighter to life on screen. The blend of effects aimed to seamlessly integrate the physical presence of the character with the digital enhancements, showcasing a creative approach to visual storytelling. The use of various techniques like animatronics and min ...

Counterarguments

  • The use of early CGI technology in the Mortal Kombat movie, while nascent, was a stepping stone for future advancements and should be appreciated for its pioneering efforts rather than solely critiqued for its shortcomings.
  • The integration of CGI and live-action performances has always been challenging, and the actors' reactions in the Mortal Kombat movie could be seen as a reflection of the era's technology rather than a lack of skill or effort.
  • The animation of a CGI character from a statue could be considered an innovative use of the resources and technology available at the time.
  • The combination of costumes and animatronics with CGI was a creative solution that filmmakers used to overcome the limitations of the era's technology, and it contributed to the unique visual style of the movie.
  • The complexity of Goro's character design and the effects used to bring him to life might be seen as an ambitious attempt to push the boundaries of what was possible with special effects at the time.
  • The suggestion that Goro's gloves were repurposed from Ninja Turtles m ...

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Matinee Monday: Mortal Kombat (w/ Cameron Esposito)

Characters and plot of the Mortal Kombat movie

The Mortal Kombat movie is an action-packed adventure that delves into a mystical tournament of battles between mortals and magical creatures, pitting good against evil in a somewhat unclear progression.

Overview of the tournament plot and different realms

The tournament is central to the storyline, but details like how the tournament is structured, who progresses, and exactly why remain ambiguous. There isn't a clear visual representation such as a bracket to track the progress of the characters through the tournament stages.

Main characters introduced, like Johnny Cage, Liu Kang, Sonya, etc.

The heroes of the story are introduced as distinctive figures, each with their own backstory and motivations.

Johnny Cage's backstory and motivation

Johnny Cage, an actor disgruntled by tabloid accusations of being a fake martial artist, joins the tournament to prove his fighting skills are legitimate. His character brings both determination and humor to the film, illustrated in a scene where he fights and humorously punches the towering Goro in the groin.

Sonya's occupation and motivation

Sonya Blade is a dedicated and fiercely motivated soldier from Earth Realm's Special Forces unit known as the Outer World Investigation Agency (OIA). Her pursuit within the tournament is driven by her official duties and a personal vendetta to avenge her partner's death at the hands of Kano, infusing her character with a deep-seated need for revenge.

Princess Kitana and Liu Kang are also mentioned as part of the heroic group, with Liu Kang's exact occupation playfully left ...

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Characters and plot of the Mortal Kombat movie

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • In the Mortal Kombat movie, the tournament structure, progression, and purpose are intentionally left vague to maintain a sense of mystery and intrigue. The focus is more on the characters and their personal motivations rather than the technical details of the tournament. This ambiguity adds to the fantastical and otherworldly nature of the story, emphasizing the mystical and supernatural elements at play. The lack of a clear bracket or rules enhances the sense of unpredictability and chaos in the battles, contributing to the overall tension and excitement of the narrative.
  • In the Mortal Kombat movie, the lack of a clear visual representation like a bracket to track character progress means that the audience doesn't see a structured tournament format with clear matchups and outcomes. This absence of a bracket can make it challenging for viewers to follow the progression of characters through the tournament stages and understand who advances or is eliminated at each stage. The storyline focuses more on individual character arcs and key battles rather than providing a traditional tournament structure with visible tracking. This creative choice adds a layer of mystery and unpredictability to the tournament narrative, emphasizing the personal journeys and confrontations of the characters over a straightforward competitive structure.
  • Liu Kang's occupation is not explicitly stated in the Mortal Kombat movie, leaving it open to interpretation. This ambiguity adds a layer of mystery to his character, allowing viewers to focus more on his role in the tournament rather than his specific profession. It could be intentional to keep his character more enigmatic and focused on his martial arts skills and personal journey.
  • Shang Tsung, a villain in the Mortal Kombat universe, possesses the ability to shapeshift and take on the appearance of other characters. This power allows him to deceive and manipulate his opponents during fights, creating confusion and gaining an advantage. By transforming into someone familiar to his adversaries, Shang Tsung can exploit their emotions and vulnerabilities, making him a formidable and cunning adversary in ba ...

Counterarguments

  • The mystical tournament could be seen as a clear metaphor for the struggle between good and evil, with the ambiguity in progression serving to reflect the unpredictable nature of real-life conflicts.
  • The lack of a clear tournament structure and visual representation like a bracket might be a deliberate choice to keep the audience focused on the characters and their personal journeys rather than the mechanics of the tournament.
  • While main characters are introduced with distinctive backstories, some viewers might find these backstories to be cliché or underdeveloped, detracting from the depth of the characters.
  • Johnny Cage's motivation to prove himself might be perceived as a shallow or ego-driven reason to participate in a tournament with such high stakes.
  • Sonya Blade's motivation for revenge could be criticized for reinforcing a trope where a female character's development is tied to a personal loss rather than her own agency.
  • The decision to leave Liu Kang's occup ...

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Matinee Monday: Mortal Kombat (w/ Cameron Esposito)

Relation of the movie to the Mortal Kombat video game

The recent Mortal Kombat movie shares its roots with the iconic video game series, with fans and critics noting various similarities and differences.

Similarities and differences between the movie and game

Cameron Esposito and Raphael discuss the parallels between the Mortal Kombat movie and the video game, focusing particularly on how the movie brings the game's world to the silver screen. They note that the movie draws from the game's basic premise, which pits mortals against creatures with magical powers in a high-stakes battle. Esposito highlights a nod to the video game's fans with the inclusion of familiar sounds from the game when the character Reptile appears.

Characters and special moves adapted from the game

The movie features several characters and special moves that fans recognize from the game. Lord Raiden, notable for shooting lightning lasers in the video game, is mentioned. There's a discussion about whether his portrayal in the movie is true to the game, focusing on elements such as his special moves, appearance, hairline, and iconic hat.

Moreover, Johnny Cage's infamous punch on Goro is an example of how special moves from the video game are portrayed in the film. Another comparison is drawn with Liu Kang's signature move from the video game, ...

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Relation of the movie to the Mortal Kombat video game

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • In the Mortal Kombat movie, Lord Raiden is a character known for his lightning-based powers. Fans discuss how the portrayal of Lord Raiden in the movie compares to his depiction in the video game, focusing on elements like his special moves, appearance, and iconic hat. The analysis delves into whether the movie stays true to the essence of the character as established in the game.
  • In the Mortal Kombat video game series, Johnny Cage is known for his special move called the "Shadow Kick," where he delivers a powerful kick to his opponent. In the context of the movie, Johnny Cage's punch on Goro is a reference to this iconic move, showcasing a direct adaptation of a special move from the game into a cinematic action sequence. This moment serves as a nod to fans of the game, highlighting the filmmakers' efforts to incorporate recognizable elements from the source material into the film adaptation.
  • In the Mortal Kombat video game, Liu Kang's signature move involves him flying forward with rapid leg kicks, which is a visually ...

Counterarguments

  • While the movie shares roots with the video game series, some may argue that it fails to capture the game's essence or depth of lore.
  • The similarities noted between the movie and the game might be superficial, and critics could argue that the film lacks the game's complexity or narrative.
  • The translation of the game's world to the silver screen might not satisfy all fans, as some could feel that the movie does not fully realize the game's setting or atmosphere.
  • The basic premise of mortals versus creatures with magical powers might be too generic, and some could argue that the movie does not explore this theme with the same originality or excitement as the game.
  • The inclusion of familiar sounds from the game, such as when Reptile appears, might be seen as pandering to fans rather than serving the movie's narrative.
  • The adaptation of characters and special moves from the game to the movie might not be faithful or well-executed, according to some fans or critics.
  • Lord Raiden's portrayal in the movie, including his special moves and appearance, might be criticized for not being true to the character's depi ...

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Matinee Monday: Mortal Kombat (w/ Cameron Esposito)

Reviews praising the movie

Glowing Amazon reviews highlighted

Amazon reviewers are showcasing their adoration for the "Mortal Kombat" movie, highlighting various elements that resonate with them on a personal and nostalgic level.

One reviewer, Laura S., proclaims "Mortal Kombat" as their cherished childhood movie. They applaud the film for its combination of captivating fights and comedic dialogue, which sparked their interest in wisdom, appeals to good looks, and martial arts. Another enthusiastic reviewer hails it as "One of the best video game movies ever made," rooted in nostalgic appreciation for iconic elements such as Scorpion's grappling hook and his fire-breathing skull. They recognize that new audiences may view the film as cheesy, yet confidently give it a 5-star recommendation.

Additionally, the authenticity of the acting, the compelling narrative, and the impressive special effects receive commendation in another review, where a scene involving Sonya's confrontation with Kano is specially mentioned. This reviewer is struck by not only the action but also comments on Sonya's appearance, recognizing the film's impact on viewers.

The hosts of the podcast echo these sentiments as they read several 5-star A ...

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Reviews praising the movie

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The "Mortal Kombat" movie resonates with reviewers due to its nostalgic connection to their youth, appreciation for iconic elements like Scorpion's grappling hook and special effects, and the blend of captivating fights with comedic dialogue. The authenticity of the acting, compelling narrative, and specific scenes like Sonya's confrontation with Kano also stand out to reviewers, impacting their viewing experience. The film's influence on shaping interests in martial arts and wisdom, as well as the emotional bond created through memories of experiencing the movie during its initial release, contribute to its positive reception.
  • The "Mortal Kombat" movie's portrayal of martial arts and themes of wisdom can inspire viewers to explore these subjects further. The film's depiction of skilled fighters and their journeys can spark an interest in martial arts training and philosophy. Through the characters' actions and dialogues, the movie may prompt viewers to contemplate themes of discipline, honor, and personal growth. This influence can lead some audience members to delve deeper into martial arts practices and seek out wisdom teachings beyond the film.
  • The ...

Counterarguments

  • While the movie may have nostalgic value, some viewers might argue that nostalgia alone doesn't make a film objectively good, and that it may not hold up to modern cinematic standards.
  • The "best video game movie ever made" is a subjective statement, and there are other video game adaptations that some viewers and critics might consider superior in terms of storytelling, production quality, or critical reception.
  • The authenticity of the acting could be perceived differently by different audiences, with some finding the performances over-the-top or lacking in depth.
  • The narrative, while compelling to some, might be seen as simplistic or formulaic by others who prefer more complex or nuanced storytelling.
  • Special effects that were impressive at the time of the movie's release may appear dated to contemporary audiences, especially with the rapid advancements in visual effects technology.
  • The specific scene involving Sonya and Kano, although impactful to some, could be criticized for how it portrays the characters or the dynamics between them, particularly in terms of gender representation.
  • The influence of the movie on interes ...

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