Cage Match: Johnny Cage’s Wild ’80s Romp Through Hollywood and Mortal Kombat

Ladies and gentlemen, get ready to step into the glitzy and gory world of Hollywood and Mortal Kombat like you’ve never seen before! In the latest installment of the Mortal Kombat Legends series, “Cage Match,” director Ethan Spaulding is back in the director’s chair, and he’s ready to deliver a knockout punch. Forget the mundane world of studio executives and agents; we’re diving headfirst into a neon-lit, ’80s-fueled adventure filled with nostalgic nods and butt-kicking battles.

Joel McHale is back to reprise his role as the ever-entertaining Johnny Cage, the hyper-masculine action star with a sarcastic edge. In “Cage Match,” Johnny takes center stage as he investigates the mysterious disappearance of his co-star, Jennifer Grey (yes, playing herself), and uncovers a diabolical conspiracy with ties to the nefarious Shinnok. It’s a Johnny Cage origin story like no other, as he navigates the treacherous Netherrealm and Mortal Kombat lore for the first time. Picture Johnny Cage, a veteran of the previous Legends movies, suddenly thrust into a world of otherworldly foes, and you’ve got the recipe for some hilarious surprises.

While the animation style in the last Legends movie, “Snow Blind,” left a lot to be desired, “Cage Match” takes a cleaner and more visually appealing approach. The movie’s vibrant hues mirror Johnny’s red-carpet flashiness, creating a dazzling backdrop for his bone-crushing action. It’s not as detailed or swift as “Scorpion’s Revenge,” but that’s entirely intentional. “Cage Match” embraces the over-the-top spectacle of Mortal Kombat-meets-showbiz sleaze, as Johnny kicks heads and uncovers the dark secrets of Hollywood.

Now, let’s talk about Johnny’s charming habit of narrating his own story. While it’s fitting for his character’s personality, the jokes don’t always hit the mark. At times, his interjections can feel forced and unnecessary, like explaining the obvious fact that his assistant, Chuck Golden, is indeed a total nerd. “Cage Match” occasionally spells things out a little too explicitly, almost as if the screenplay doesn’t trust the audience to pick up on subtle clues. However, it’s redeemed by some playful jabs at the industry’s greed, with the late, great Gilbert Gottfried lending his voice to the tyrannical David Doubldy.

When it comes to the Mortal Kombat element, “Cage Match” takes a more unstructured approach to the tournament feel. While familiar faces pop up as both foes and allies, the body count is surprisingly lower than in previous Legends movies. The thirst for bone-crushing fatalities is also diminished, but the final act delivers the goods when Johnny faces off against Shinnok on Hollywood Boulevard.

In the realm of combat choreography and action, “Cage Match” struggles to match the brilliance of “Scorpion’s Revenge.” At times, it can feel a bit childish, with jokes that may make you cringe, but that’s all part of the fun. The artwork leans toward Saturday-morning-cartoon territory, lacking the fierce intensity of its predecessor. And let’s not forget the soundtrack, filled with hilariously motivating pop songs that dictate your feelings like a cheesy action movie from yesteryears.

In the end, “Mortal Kombat Legends: Cage Match” is a quirky, R-rated Mortal Kombat adventure that seems like it’s aiming for a younger audience. Joel McHale gives it his all, making the most out of the material he’s been handed. If you’re a fan of ’80s action movies and are ready for a wild, goofy ride reminiscent of Van Damme classics, “Cage Match” might just have what you’re looking for. Yet, it’s hard to ignore the feeling that it often takes the simplest route, even when it comes to the bone-shattering moves that Mortal Kombat fans crave.

In a world where Mortal Kombat and Hollywood collide, “Cage Match” is a bizarre and entertaining entry that might just leave you shouting, “Finish him!”