Happy Mortal Kombat II release day!
Today marks the release of the highly anticipated follow-up to the 2021 Mortal Kombat movie. This time around, we’re introduced to more of the women from the fan favourite video games, including Kitana, Jade, Sindel, and the return of Sonya Blade from the previous movie.
The quartet has long appeared in various Mortal Kombat games, with some also appearing in past live-action adaptations. However, there is something about the cast of Mortal Kombat II that really makes the characters shine on the big screen. Adeline Rudolph, Jessica McNamee, Tati Gabrielle, and Ana Thu Nguyen each bring something special to their respective character portrayals, and it’s a treat to watch. If you enjoy kick-ass women, you’ll want to check out Mortal Kombat II, in theatres now.
Now, without further ado, let’s get to know the women of Mortal Kombat II!
Kitana
Kitana made her first appearance in the video game Mortal Kombat II in 1993. So, it’s very appropriate for her to appear in the Mortal Kombat II movie. Decked out in her signature blue with her steel death fans in hand, Kitana is a standout in the Mortal Kombat realm, as well as a fan favourite. Portrayed by Adeline Rudolph, the character was not part of the 2021 movie, but she’s a welcome addition to the bunch this time around. In the film, Rudolph has many scene-stealing moments, including epic fight sequences (which we all expected and hoped for) and key emotional beats of the story. After watching the film, I’d say that Rudolph’s Kitana was the highlight.
Sonya Blade
Sonya Blade was one of the original Mortal Kombat video game characters, making her debut in 1992 as the only female fighter in the roster. In the 2021 film, Sonya was portrayed by Jessica McNamee, who reprises her role in Mortal Kombat II. When we last saw her in the previous film, she was giving Kano what he deserved (we support women’s rights and wrongs). The rivalry between the pair was an element carried over from the video games, as Kano served as Sonya’s adversary in them. Sonya Blade has continued to be a mainstay in the Mortal Kombat franchise, both in the games and the films, and if there is another movie, it will be interesting to see where the story takes her.
Jade
Jade was originally created as an “evil version” of Kitana and debuted in 1993 in the Mortal Kombat II video game as a hidden opponent. She later became a playable character in the 1995 game, Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3. In Mortal Kombat II, Jade is aptly portrayed by Tati Gabrielle, equipped with her trusty bō staff. Much like her character lore from the games, Jade is a friend and confidante of Kitana in the movie. She also serves as one of the princess’s protectors, but has an undeniable allegiance to Shao Khan – something that causes a rift between her and Kitana. Watching how Jade and Kitana navigate the fracture they face is an important part of the film.
Sindel
Sindel made her debut as a playable character in the Mortal Kombat 3 video game. She is the Queen of Edenia and the mother of Kitana. In Mortal Kombat II, the character is portrayed by Ana Thu Nguyen and has a pretty badass first introduction, facing off against some of Shao Kahn’s goons. While Nguyen’s version of Sindel doesn’t get as much screen time as her Mortal Kombat II counterparts, it was still enjoyable to see the character back on the big screen.
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