This is Casting Critiques, where we analyze whether an actor fits their role or how their performance ranks. Today, we’re looking at James Remar as Raiden in Mortal Kombat: Annihilation. While Remar’s version of the thunder god is an improvement in terms of action, poor writing and uninspired character design still hold him back.
Casting & Characterization
James Remar stepping into the role of Raiden was a controversial change from Christopher Lambert’s portrayal in the first Mortal Kombat film. While Remar brings more physicality to the role, he lacks the mystical presence and gravitas fans expect from the god of thunder. His performance, while not outright terrible, feels more like a generic martial artist rather than an all-powerful protector of Earthrealm.
That said, one major improvement is that we actually see Raiden fight. Unlike Lambert’s Raiden, who mostly stood on the sidelines, Remar participates in some of the film’s best action sequences. His fights are well-choreographed, making Raiden feel more active and involved in the story.
However, his portrayal lacks the wisdom and authority the character is known for in the games. Instead of being the commanding force leading the Earthrealm warriors, he often comes across as just another member of the team, rather than their divine mentor and protector.
Rating: 2 out of 5
Writing & Character Development
The writing for Raiden in Mortal Kombat: Annihilation continues the film’s trend of mishandling major characters. While he has a more active role in the action, his character arc is lackluster. The decision to have him give up his godhood to fight alongside the others could have been interesting, but it ultimately goes nowhere and fails to add any depth to his character.
Raiden’s wisdom and leadership, which are crucial to his role in the Mortal Kombat universe, are barely present. He spends much of the film reacting rather than guiding, and his interactions with the heroes feel hollow. The writing strips away his divine presence, making him feel far less important than he should be.
While the film at least allows him to fight, it does little to explore his significance in the Mortal Kombat mythos. As a result, he feels like an afterthought rather than the powerful protector of Earthrealm.
Rating: 1 out of 5
Character Design & Costume
Raiden’s look in Mortal Kombat: Annihilation is one of the most disappointing aspects of the character. His design is far too simplistic, failing to capture the grand, otherworldly appearance he has in the games. Gone are the intricate robes, the glowing eyes, and the imposing presence. Instead, he’s dressed in a generic, sleeveless outfit that makes him look more like a wandering monk than the god of thunder.
The lack of effort in his costume makes him blend into the background rather than stand out as a powerful deity. His transformation after giving up his godhood is equally underwhelming—rather than feeling like a dramatic shift, it just makes him look even more plain.
Additionally, the film misses an opportunity to showcase Raiden’s signature lightning-based abilities. While he has a few moments of supernatural power, they are minimal and unimpressive. Instead of feeling like a divine warrior, he comes across as just another martial artist, which takes away from his mystique and presence.
Rating: 1 out of 5
The Verdict
In the end, James Remar’s Raiden is a step up in terms of action, but poor writing and weak character design hold him back. While he delivers some of the film’s best fights, he lacks the wisdom and gravitas of the character. Ultimately, he’s a miscast but still a slight improvement over Lambert. The official rating is 2 out of 5.
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