The 2021 Mortal Kombat movie, a reboot of the popular video game franchise, clocks in at a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes (110 minutes). This straightforward answer, however, only scratches the surface. The experience – the pacing, the action, the story beats – can all contribute to how that 110 minutes feels. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the movie’s length, its pacing, and answers frequently asked questions about the Mortal Kombat (2021) movie.
Understanding the Runtime of Mortal Kombat (2021)
While the runtime itself is a fixed value, it’s important to understand how that time is allocated. The 110 minutes includes the opening and closing credits, leaving a substantial portion dedicated to action sequences and character development.
The Balance of Action and Story
The movie’s length is meticulously designed to balance the core elements fans expect: thrilling fight scenes and a developing narrative arc. While dedicated action sequences certainly consume a significant portion of the runtime, time is also dedicated to exploring the origins of key characters, their motivations, and the complex relationships that define the Mortal Kombat universe. The narrative, though arguably less important than the action to some fans, contributes to the overall pacing and prevents the movie from becoming simply a string of fights.
Pacing and Perceived Length
Ultimately, the perceived length of a movie is subjective and heavily influenced by its pacing. A well-paced movie, even a long one, can feel shorter than a poorly paced movie with a shorter runtime. Mortal Kombat (2021) aims for a relatively fast pace, packing a considerable amount of lore and action into its 110 minutes. However, individual viewer experiences may vary depending on their engagement with the characters and the story.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mortal Kombat (2021)
This section addresses common questions about the movie, its production, and its relation to the source material.
FAQ 1: Does the movie have any post-credit scenes?
Yes, Mortal Kombat (2021) features one mid-credit scene. This scene hints at the potential sequel and introduces a fan-favorite character who was absent from the main storyline. Therefore, it is worth staying until the credits roll.
FAQ 2: How does the runtime compare to other Mortal Kombat movies?
The 1995 Mortal Kombat movie has a runtime of 1 hour and 41 minutes (101 minutes), while the 1997 sequel, Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, clocks in at 1 hour and 35 minutes (95 minutes). Therefore, the 2021 reboot is slightly longer than both of the previous theatrical releases.
FAQ 3: Is the movie length appropriate for the content and story being told?
Whether the runtime is “appropriate” is subjective. Some viewers found the pacing to be rushed, wishing for more character development, while others felt the length was perfect for delivering a visually stunning and action-packed experience. Considering the movie aims to establish a foundation for a potential franchise, the 110-minute runtime allows for introducing key characters and setting up future conflicts without overstaying its welcome.
FAQ 4: Does the extended cut add significantly to the overall runtime?
There is no officially released extended cut of Mortal Kombat (2021). Any “extended” versions circulating online are likely fan edits or incomplete cuts that were not authorized by the studio. The 110-minute theatrical version is the definitive and official version of the film.
FAQ 5: Were any scenes cut from the movie that would have extended the runtime?
It’s common for films to have scenes cut during the editing process. While specific details about deleted scenes haven’t been widely publicized, it’s likely that certain character moments or fight sequences were shortened or removed to streamline the narrative and achieve the desired pacing. These decisions are typical in filmmaking to ensure the most impactful final product within the allocated runtime.
FAQ 6: How does the length of the movie affect the character development?
The runtime limitations inevitably impact the depth of character development. While the movie introduces several iconic characters, their backstories and motivations are often presented concisely, relying on pre-existing knowledge from the games. Some viewers felt that certain characters could have benefited from more screen time to fully flesh out their personalities and relationships.
FAQ 7: Does the runtime allow for adequate setup of the Mortal Kombat tournament?
The movie takes a different approach to the Mortal Kombat tournament than some fans expected. It focuses primarily on the pre-tournament phase, showcasing the gathering of Earthrealm’s champions and the threat posed by Outworld’s forces. While the actual tournament is alluded to, it is not the central focus of this film. Therefore, the runtime is primarily dedicated to setting up the premise of the tournament, rather than its execution.
FAQ 8: How long are the fight scenes in Mortal Kombat (2021)?
The length of individual fight scenes varies considerably. Some are brief, impactful bursts of action, while others are more extended and elaborate, showcasing signature moves and fatalities. It’s difficult to provide an exact cumulative runtime for all the fight scenes, but they collectively constitute a significant portion of the movie’s overall length. The focus is on quality over quantity; each fight aims to be memorable and visually impressive.
FAQ 9: Does the movie feel longer or shorter than its actual runtime?
Subjective perception plays a significant role. Some viewers find the movie to be a fast-paced, action-packed ride that feels shorter than its 110 minutes. Others, particularly those hoping for more in-depth character development or a more traditional tournament structure, may find the movie to feel slightly longer. The individual viewer’s expectations and engagement with the material are crucial factors.
FAQ 10: Is the 110-minute runtime a good length for an action movie?
Generally, 110 minutes is a standard and acceptable length for a modern action movie. It allows for a sufficient amount of action while still providing enough time for narrative development. However, the effectiveness of that runtime depends on how well it’s utilized. A poorly paced or poorly written 110-minute action movie can feel incredibly long, while a well-executed one can feel perfectly balanced.
FAQ 11: Does the ending feel rushed due to the movie’s length?
Some viewers felt that the ending of Mortal Kombat (2021) was somewhat abrupt, leaving them wanting more. The movie concludes by setting up a potential sequel, leaving several plot threads unresolved. This deliberate choice, likely influenced by the studio’s franchise aspirations, may contribute to the perception of a rushed ending.
FAQ 12: Will a sequel have a longer runtime to accommodate more story?
The potential runtime of a Mortal Kombat sequel remains to be seen. However, if a sequel is greenlit, it is likely that the studio will consider expanding the runtime to allow for more in-depth character development, a more extensive tournament arc, and the exploration of other key elements from the Mortal Kombat universe. Ultimately, the decision regarding runtime will depend on the specific story being told and the director’s vision.
In conclusion, while the runtime of Mortal Kombat (2021) is definitively 1 hour and 50 minutes, the experience of those 110 minutes varies greatly from viewer to viewer. Understanding the movie’s pacing, its focus on action over deep character development, and the context of its potential as a franchise starter are crucial factors in assessing its overall impact and enjoyment.