Resident Evil; A Step in the Right Direction for Video Game Adaptations [Review]
Premiered on September 18th and grossed 108.3 million dollars worldwide during its first weekend.
When Zach Cregger (previously having directed Barbarian, Companion, Weapons) was announced to direct the latest installment in the Resident Evil franchise, many fans questioned in which direction he would take with the series. Fans of the franchise have spent decades with their strong opinions on the adaptation’s quality, and the general public was unsure of how Cregger’s vision would benefit the franchise.
Resident Evil is a franchise that has long lived in a divisive territory. The previous seven films were highly criticized, mainly due to it feeling unrelated to the series it was adapting. Many fans wanted a direct adaptation from its video games. However, the debate was always whether it was needed. What would a film adaptation be like if it took its own approach to the series and lore, and attempted a new story that hadn’t been shown before?
Review
Resident Evil
Cregger brought to screens a dark, scary, yet hilarious and fun entry to the horror genre. The film brings numerous well made scares and screwed up visuals in a way that is both sure to make you lose your appetite, but also laugh at the absurdity of the situation.
The film follows a kind, yet inexperienced courier attempting to bring a serum to a hospital, but a monster virus is trying to stop him from doing so every step of the way. What he lacks in is combat skills and weapon experience. He makes up for it in a drive to finish his job and save the city. He’s a very down to earth, kindhearted, realistic protagonist. So through the movie, you are rooting for him to succeed; even if the things he must do are disturbing.
Resident Evil has an emphasis on creating memorable atmospheric horror visuals, fun comedy, really creative scares, and unique linear video game-esque storybeats. Between the appetite losing gore, there’s fun nods to the games, and amazing character development. The scares are some of the darkest in the genre, with some jaw dropping moments. Though, the film doesn’t manage to lose itself in the darkness, as it continues to balance itself out with the absurdity of the situation, and great comedic moments.
The film is a worthwhile watch for both Resident Evil, and traditional horror fans alike. It’s a great watch if you’re looking for a well produced horror comedy. The film balances amazing references to the series it’s adapting, new creative ideas, and great horror in the short runtime.
