The Mortal Kombat film series has brought plenty of the franchise's most beloved fighters to life, but some major names are still missing from the big screen. With Mortal Kombat II hitting theaters to mixed reviews and a softer-than-expected box office, the future of the franchise is uncertain—but far from doomed. A third movie could still happen, especially once the sequel lands on streaming, and that would be the perfect chance to introduce the characters fans have been clamoring for.
From cybernetic assassins to a controversial bug queen, here are five major Mortal Kombat characters who have yet to make their live-action debut.
Cyrax & Sektor
First appearing in Mortal Kombat 3, Cyrax and Sektor are former Lin Kuei warriors turned into emotionless cybernetic killing machines by the Cyber Initiative. Their primary mission: hunt down Sub-Zero. While Cyrax often walks the line between tragic antihero and reluctant ally, Sektor is a full-blown villain, unhinged and ruthless. Together, they represent two sides of the same coin—humanity versus machine, redemption versus damnation.
Their dynamic would be a fantastic addition to the live-action films, offering a chance to explore themes of identity and free will amid the franchise's signature gore. Whether they appear in their original forms or as gender-swapped versions (as in the recent games), Cyrax and Sektor could become some of the most compelling cyborgs in cinema. A potential Mortal Kombat III would be the ideal stage for their debut.
D'Vorah
Love her or hate her—and fans are sharply divided—D'Vorah has become a major player in Mortal Kombat lore since her introduction in Mortal Kombat X. This duplicitous Kytinn has betrayed nearly everyone she's allied with, killing off fan-favorites like Mileena, Baraka, and even Hanzo Hasashi himself. Her actions have made her one of the most despised villains in the series, but also one of the most memorable.
Her grotesque design, unique insect-based powers, and stomach-churning Fatalities would translate brilliantly to live-action. D'Vorah is the kind of antagonist audiences love to hate, and her inclusion would give the movies a chance to showcase their commitment to over-the-top violence. Plus, she'd add a layer of unpredictability to any storyline.
Kenshi Takanashi
Kenshi is one of the most beloved characters to come out of the later games. Debuting in Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance, he's a blind swordsman with telekinetic abilities and a deep-seated grudge against Shang Tsung. His backstory has evolved over the years—from a born fighter to a former Yakuza member seeking his ancestral sword—but his core remains the same: a tragic hero with heightened senses that make him nearly unbeatable in combat.
Fans have long hoped to see Kenshi on the big screen, and his journey would fit perfectly into the movie universe. His rivalry with Shang Tsung could drive a compelling subplot, and his visual style—blindfolded, wielding a katana—is instantly iconic. If the filmmakers want to add depth and emotional weight to the action, Kenshi is the character to bring in.
Kuai Liang (The Second Sub-Zero)
After Bi-Han dies in the first tournament and returns as the evil Noob Saibot, his brother Kuai Liang takes up the Sub-Zero mantle. Unlike Bi-Han, Kuai Liang embodies honor and courage, eventually forming a legendary friendship with Scorpion. Despite controversial changes in Mortal Kombat 1, Kuai Liang remains a pillar of the franchise.
Fans were disappointed that Kuai Liang didn't appear in Mortal Kombat II, especially since Bi-Han's death in the first movie set up the perfect opportunity. His absence leaves a gap in the live-action canon—one that a third film could easily fill. Introducing Kuai Liang would not only honor the games but also deepen the Sub-Zero legacy on screen.
These characters represent some of the best the Mortal Kombat series has to offer. Whether the movies continue or not, fans will keep hoping to see them perform Fatalities in all their bloody glory. For more on the franchise, check out our list of 10 Action Movies That Get Better Every Time You Watch Them or dive into 10 Underrated Fantasy Movies That Deserve Way More Love.
