New Line Cinema has released the first official trailer for Mortal Kombat II, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2021 action hit based on the legendary video game franchise. The film, set to hit theatres and IMAX across North America on October 24, 2025, brings back several fan-favourite characters while introducing new ones in what promises to be an even more intense and brutal chapter.
Returning to the role of Liu Kang is Chinese Canadian actor Ludi Lin, a UBC graduate who spends part of his time living in Vancouver. Lin, who first portrayed the fire-wielding character in the 2021 film, has become a recognisable face in genre cinema with previous roles in Power Rangers and Aquaman. Raised in Hong Kong after being born in Fuzhou, China, Lin came to Vancouver to study at UBC when he was 17. He has frequently spoken about the importance of Asian representation in mainstream media and brings a blend of physicality and cultural depth to one of the series’ most iconic characters.
The new film sees Earthrealm’s defenders, including Liu Kang, face off in an all-out tournament against the dark forces of Outworld. This time, the threat is Shao Kahn, and the fate of the realm hangs in the balance. Joining the ensemble cast is Karl Urban as Johnny Cage, a long-demanded addition by fans of the franchise. Also returning are Jessica McNamee, Josh Lawson, Mehcad Brooks, Lewis Tan, Tati Gabrielle, and Hiroyuki Sanada.
Simon McQuoid returns to direct, with a screenplay by Jeremy Slater, known for his work on Moon Knight. The film is produced by Todd Garner, James Wan, Toby Emmerich, E. Bennett Walsh, and McQuoid, with Warner Bros. Pictures distributing the project worldwide.
The trailer teases the film’s signature blend of stylised violence, high-stakes mythology, and character-driven action sequences. With an expanded cast, a darker tone, and cinematic ambition, Mortal Kombat II aims to deliver a sequel that satisfies longtime fans while drawing in a broader audience.
For local audiences, Ludi Lin’s return is a point of pride. The Vancouver-connected actor continues to make waves internationally, and his role in Mortal Kombat II cements his place as a rising figure in contemporary action cinema.
