At least on a casting front, we’ve already reached a point where the new “Mortal Kombat” film adaptation has surpassed the campy 1995 film. First, we learned that “The Raid” star Joe Taslim was going to have a prominent role in the new James Wan-produced martial arts film. And now, thanks to a report from Variety, we know that he’s likely going to have at least one more quality actor to challenge in a fight to the gory, over-the-top death.
The report says that actor Ludi Lin is in talks to star as Liu Kang in the upcoming remake of “Mortal Kombat.” For those unfamiliar with the video game that inspired the film, “Mortal Kombat” tells the story of a mysterious criminal organization that brings fighters from all over the world to a location for a no-holds-barred martial arts tournament, where the film’s expected R-rating will allow for the fights to end with spine-ripping and other grisly deaths.
Interestingly enough, Lin not only is a great fit for the role as the hero Liu Kang, but has had a bit of martial arts video game experience recently, as one of the stars of the “Black Mirror” episode “Striking Vipers.” Of course, we’re going to go out on a limb and say that the fights in “Mortal Kombat” won’t be used as a way for men to express any pent-up sexual frustration and explore their sexuality. Though, one could argue that many video games serve as that sort of outlet for people who play them, whether they realize it or not. But I digress.
Lin is also known as one of the stars of the recent “Power Rangers” reboot film, where he played the Black Ranger, Zack. He also recently appeared in a relatively minor role in the blockbuster “Aquaman,” which happened to be directed by “Mortal Kombat” producer Wan. We’re sure that didn’t hurt Lin’s prospects at all.
“Mortal Kombat” is expected to arrive in theaters on March 5, 2021.
