Mortal Kombat: Annihilation (1997)

**Mortal Kombat: Annihilation (1997)** "Mortal Kombat: Annihilation" thrusts a group of heroic warriors into a desperate six-day race against time to prevent the total takeover of Earth. As a direct sequel to the 1995 film "Mortal Kombat" and based on the iconic video game franchise, the story sees Earth's champions — led by Liu Kang and Sonya Blade — confronting the tyrannical Emperor Shao Kahn. To succeed, they must survive the most spectacular series of challenges any human, or god, has ever encountered, battling the evil warlord bent on merging his Outworld with Earthrealm. Directed by John R. Leonetti, this 1997 sequel significantly expands the cinematic universe, introducing a larger roster of fan-favorite characters such as Sindel, Nightwolf, and Motaro. While aiming for grander spectacle and more elaborate martial arts sequences, the film is often noted for its ambitious but frequently criticized special effects and an intricate plot that races from one perilous encounter to the next. Despite its polarizing reception, "Annihilation" serves as a pivotal, if tumultuous, chapter in the *Mortal Kombat* film saga. --- **Why it belongs on the list "Best John R. Leonetti Movies":** "Mortal Kombat: Annihilation" holds a significant, albeit often debated, place on any list of John R. Leonetti's films primarily because it marks his **directorial debut**. Prior to this, Leonetti had an established and respected career as a cinematographer, famously lensing films like "The Mask" and the first "Mortal Kombat." "Annihilation" was his first opportunity to step into the director's chair, showcasing his initial vision and approach to large-scale action, fantasy, and martial arts choreography. While the film's critical reception was mixed, it represents a pivotal moment in his career transition and provides insight into his early directorial style, characterized by a bold attempt to expand a beloved franchise. It’s a foundational piece for understanding his subsequent work as a director in the horror and action genres (e.g., *Annabelle*, *Wish Upon*), making it an essential entry for analyzing his filmography, regardless of its critical standing.