Mortal Kombat (2021) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The film spans multiple realms: 17th-century Japan where the initial conflict between the Lin Kuei and Shirai Ryu clans takes place, present-day Earth where most human characters live, the Netherrealm (a dark underworld where trapped souls exist), and Outworld (a victorious realm that has previously defeated Earthrealm in the tournament). Raiden's temple serves as the sanctuary for Earth's champions.

• settings
• realms
• locations
• earthrealm
• outworld
• netherrealm

The story unfolds across two time periods. It begins in 17th-century Japan with Hanzo Hasashi's tragic fate, then jumps to the present day where Earthrealm faces imminent domination by Outworld. This 400-year gap establishes the legacy that connects past events to the current threat.

• time period
• 17th century
• present day
• timeline

Earthrealm is the human world and the setting for the film's present-day events. Outworld is a powerful realm that has previously conquered Earthrealm in Mortal Kombat tournaments, seeking total domination. The Netherrealm is a dark, malevolent underworld where trapped souls linger, notably containing Hanzo Hasashi's spirit after his death.

• earthrealm
• outworld
• netherrealm
• realms
• universe

Mortal Kombat is a mystical tournament between the realms where the outcome determines whether Outworld gains the right to invade and dominate Earthrealm. Earth has lost previous tournaments, and the current threat looms as Outworld seeks final victory. The film's heroes must compete to prevent this fate.

• tournament
• mortal kombat
• competition
• earthrealm
• outworld

The film centers on three major themes: Vengeance drives characters like Hanzo and Cole seeking retribution against their enemies. Heroism emerges as warriors unite to fight tyranny and protect Earthrealm. Legacy connects Cole to his ancestor Hanzo, empowering him to embrace his destiny and fulfill his family's heritage.

• themes
• vengeance
• heroism
• legacy
• meaning

Vengeance is a central force driving the narrative. Hanzo Hasashi seeks revenge against Bi-Han after being murdered, becoming a vengeful specter trapped in the Netherrealm. This cycle of vengeance later influences Cole Young as he discovers his lineage and embraces his ancestor's legacy to battle the forces that destroyed his family.

• vengeance
• hanzo
• scorpion
• bi-han
• sub-zero

Legacy connects Cole Young to his ancestor Hanzo Hasashi, the legendary Scorpion. This heritage burdens Cole with expectations but also unlocks his hidden Arcana powers. The theme emphasizes how past actions and familial ties shape present circumstances, as Cole must honor his bloodline to confront the threats facing Earthrealm.

• legacy
• cole young
• hanzo hasashi
• ancestry
• family

Cole Young is an ex-MMA fighter who discovers he is a descendant of Hanzo Hasashi, linking him to the Shirai Ryu clan. He initially lives an ordinary life until learning of his hidden ancestry and the threat from Outworld. Cole must transform from an average fighter into Earth's champion, embracing his legacy and unlocking his Arcana to participate in the Mortal Kombat tournament.

• cole young
• protagonist
• warrior
• champion

Sub-Zero, whose real name is Bi-Han, leads the Lin Kuei clan as a ruthless and cold assassin. He possesses powerful ice abilities that make him a formidable warrior. His betrayal and murder of Hanzo Hasashi sets the events of the film in motion, establishing the central conflict between the clans.

• sub-zero
• bi-han
• lin kuei
• ice powers
• villain

Scorpion is Hanzo Hasashi, a tragic hero and former leader of the Shirai Ryu clan. After being murdered by Sub-Zero, his spirit becomes trapped in the Netherrealm, fueling his desire for vengeance. He becomes a pivotal figure guiding Cole toward his destiny as a protector of Earthrealm.

• scorpion
• hanzo hasashi
• shirai ryu
• vengeance

Raiden is the divine guardian of Earthrealm who guides and trains its champions against Outworld. He maintains a temple sanctuary for Earth's warriors and possesses enormous electrical powers. Despite his caution regarding newcomers, he plays a crucial role in preparing Cole and others for the Mortal Kombat tournament.

• raiden
• guardian
• earthrealm
• thunder
• mentor

Shang Tsung is the malevolent sorcerer serving as the film's primary antagonist. He orchestrates Outworld's campaign to eliminate Earth's champions through cunning manipulation and his ability to absorb souls. His intelligence and dangerous magical abilities pose the greatest threat to the heroes.

• shang tsung
• sorcerer
• antagonist
• villain
• evil