In the infinite realms of crossover possibilities, where iconic characters duel in a boundless multiverse, the concept of a “Mortal Kombat Vs. DC Universe” movie emerged as a tantalizing prospect. However, despite the evident allure and potential financial windfall of such a venture, it appears that fans will have to keep dreaming a bit longer.
The Vision Behind the Crossover and Its Sudden Demise
In an industry where fandoms dictate the success of franchises, Jeremy Adams, the celebrated writer behind various Mortal Kombat and DC animated movies, presented a vision that was unfortunately dismissed by Warner Bros. In an unfiltered conversation with ComicBook, Adams revealed that although the pitched idea was genuinely considered, the higher-ups at the studio ultimately declined to move forward with it.
“Lower your expectations,” Adams advised the fans, signaling that the Mortal Kombat Vs. DC project might be nestled in an abyss of unrealized ideas for a foreseeable future. He elaborated, saying that he isn’t sure whether the studios “have any plans to do more.” His proposal, albeit creatively intriguing and widely anticipated by fans, was “rebuffed” due to the studio’s lack of interest in the project.
Reflecting on an Established Fandom and Gaming History
The inception of a Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe animated film can be traced back to the 2008 PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 game. In this amalgamation of worlds, fans were treated to unique combinations of special moves, pairing, for example, Batman’s “Sneaky Batarang” against Scorpion’s iconic “Spear.” Despite not embodying the dark, edgy fatalities, Mortal Kombat was renowned for, the game still marked its spot as a fan favorite.
The Omni-Man trailer for ‘MORTAL KOMBAT 1’ has been released. pic.twitter.com/f8dSuFkC67
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) October 14, 2023
As for now, the glimmers of such a crossover reside merely within the confines of gaming universes, primarily in the original game and “Injustice 2.” These provide the closest touchpoints fans can experience the tantalizing combat between Mortal Kombat and DC characters.
The Enduring Hope and Persistent Desire for a Cross-Platform Battle
Adams, while bearing a modicum of disappointment regarding the rejection of his idea, still clings to a sliver of hope. “I would love to see a DC Mortal Kombat. That would be super, super cool,” he expressed, asserting that should the executives at Warner Bros. ever reverse their decision, he’d be eager to answer the call.
Despite the setback, it’s pivotal to remember that in a world where superhero and video game movies are frequently emerging as triumphant victors at the box office, the prospect of such a crossover retains its luster. A Mortal Kombat Vs. DC animated feature still glistens with potential, and perhaps, with persistent fan enthusiasm and the continual ebb and flow of industry trends, it could one day materialize into reality.
The Cross-Pollination of Franchises: A Trend Unseen by Warner Bros.?
While Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe hibernates in the void of unproduced ideas, other franchises like “Super Smash Brothers” continually tap into the lucrative model of cross-franchise character integrations, incorporating figures from Pokémon, Animal Crossing, Metal Gear Solid, Sonic the Hedgehog, and more.
Given the potential financial and fandom gains witnessed by other studios and franchises that have dared to walk the crossover path, one could argue that Warner Bros. might be overlooking a potential blockbuster opportunity. Yet, the universe of crossovers is unpredictable and, who knows, perhaps the fusion of Mortal Kombat and DC realms could unexpectedly find its way to our screens in the future.
Until then, the notion of a Mortal Kombat Vs. DC Universe animated movie remains a fervent dream, sustained only by the unwavering passion of its dedicated fans and the timeless allure of the “what if” that lingers in the air.
