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Cole Young is a fictional character created specifically for the 2021 film adaptation of Mortal Kombat. He does not originate from the video game series, which is a significant point of distinction for fans of the franchise.

Who is Cole Young?

Cole Young is introduced in the 2021 Mortal Kombat movie as a new protagonist, serving as an entry point for audiences unfamiliar with the extensive lore of the games. He is portrayed by actor Lewis Tan.

Key Characteristics and Background:

• Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Fighter: At the beginning of the film, Cole is a struggling MMA fighter with a family, including his wife Allison and daughter Emily. He is depicted as a character trying to make ends meet, often losing fights but showing resilience.
• Descendant of Scorpion: The central mystery surrounding Cole's identity is his connection to the "dragon mark" (a unique birthmark that signifies a chosen fighter for Mortal Kombat). It is later revealed that he is a direct descendant of Hanzo Hasashi, also known as Scorpion, one of the most iconic characters in the Mortal Kombat universe. This lineage grants him a unique arcana (supernatural power) related to his ancestry.
• Arcana: Cole's arcana manifests as a golden, protective armor that can absorb and redirect kinetic energy. This ability develops throughout the film as he trains and comes to terms with his heritage.
• Protagonist's Role: As the film's main protagonist, Cole is tasked with understanding his destiny, uniting with other Earthrealm champions, and ultimately fighting to protect his family and his realm from the forces of Outworld led by Shang Tsung.

Why Was Cole Young Created?

The decision to introduce an entirely new character as the lead for a well-established franchise like Mortal Kombat was met with mixed reactions from fans. The filmmakers' rationale for his creation generally revolves around:

• Audience Entry Point: To provide a fresh perspective for viewers who might not be familiar with the complex mythology of the Mortal Kombat games. Cole's journey of discovery mirrors the audience's, allowing them to learn about the world alongside him.
• Emotional Core: To ground the fantastical elements of Mortal Kombat with a relatable human story. His motivation to protect his family offers an emotional anchor for the narrative.
• Originality: While drawing heavily from the source material, Cole's inclusion allowed the filmmakers some creative freedom to tell a new story within the existing framework, rather than simply rehashing a game's plotline.

Reception and Impact

Cole Young's character received varied responses. Some critics and viewers appreciated having a new character to follow, especially those less familiar with the games. They found his family-centric motivation compelling. However, many long-time Mortal Kombat fans expressed disappointment, preferring that the film focus on established characters from the game's vast roster, or feeling that Cole's arc took screen time away from fan favorites.

Despite the mixed reception, Cole Young served his purpose in the 2021 film by providing a central narrative thread and a personal connection to the larger Mortal Kombat tournament. His future in potential sequels remains a topic of discussion among fans and filmmakers.