When it comes to video game adaptations, staying true to the source material is often the key to success. HBO's The Last of Us and Netflix's The Witcher proved that loyalty to the original story can win over audiences. But the Mortal Kombat franchise has had a more uneven journey on screen, with highs and lows that mirror the brutal battles of the tournament itself.
The original 1995 film, directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, remains a cult classic, while its 1997 sequel, Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, is widely panned. The 2021 reboot, directed by Simon McQuoid, brought the franchise back to life with a gritty, modern take—even if it didn't feature the iconic tournament. That film's success paved the way for a sequel, Mortal Kombat II, which arrived in theaters earlier this year.
Now, Mortal Kombat II is making an early leap to digital platforms. According to listings on Fandango at Home and Apple TV, the film will be available for digital purchase and rental starting June 9, 2026. This move comes after the sequel's underwhelming box office performance, despite a stronger critical reception than its predecessor.
The sequel brings back fan-favorite characters like Johnny Cage (played by Karl Urban), Kitana (Adeline Rudolph), and the fearsome Shao Kahn (Martyn Ford). The cast also includes returning stars Joe Taslim, Hiroyuki Sanada, and Josh Lawson. Written by Jeremy Slater, the film was originally delayed to avoid competition but ended up facing off against major releases like the Michael Jackson biopic Michael and The Devil Wears Prada 2.
So, what does this mean for a potential Mortal Kombat III? Director Simon McQuoid addressed the possibility in a recent interview, saying he doesn't want to sound "overly confident" but admitted it's something he thinks about and theorizes. For now, fans will have to wait and see if the digital release can boost the franchise's fortunes.
In the meantime, Mortal Kombat II is still playing in theaters. For more on the future of the franchise, stay tuned to ShowtimeSpot. And if you're looking for other fantasy sequels making waves, check out how Masters of the Universe defied skeptics at the box office or explore our ranking of 21st century's best high fantasy movies.
