The Scorpion King (2002) is an action-adventure film that serves as a prequel to The Mummy series, following the rise of Mathayus (played by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson) to become the legendary Scorpion King. Set in ancient times, the film introduces Mathayus as a skilled and feared warrior from the Akkadian tribe, hired to assassinate a powerful sorceress named Cassandra (Kelly Hu), who serves the tyrant Memnon.

Memnon (Steven Brand) has been using Cassandra’s prophetic abilities to conquer kingdoms and rule with an iron fist.

However, when Mathayus captures Cassandra, he realizes she is being held against her will and decides to protect her rather than kill her. The two team up, and with the help of allies along the way, Mathayus begins to fight back against Memnon’s forces, leading a rebellion to free the people from his tyranny.

Packed with intense battles, sword fights, and epic desert landscapes, the film showcases Mathayus’s transformation from a skilled assassin to a heroic leader. Ultimately, he faces Memnon in a climactic showdown, determined to reclaim the land and establish himself as a legendary ruler.

The Scorpion King combines high-stakes action with ancient myth, marking the beginning of Mathayus’s journey into legend.