Like most fans of the Resident Evil games, I was less than impressed with the movie cash-ins started by Paul W.S. Anderson in 2002. Therefore, I was delighted when I found that Sony were releasing a 'true' Resident Evil film, done in the style of the games (computer animated) and featuring real Resident Evil characters. It's very clear from the outset that this is a Resident Evil film purely for fans and I highly doubt that anyone who doesn't love the games will be impressed by it. As a film in its own right, it has to be said that it is a bit lacking; but it's still a treat for fans and a lot better than the live-action counterparts. The film focuses on Resident Evil 2's protagonists; Leon Kennedy and Claire Redfield. Claire just happens to be at an airport where a T-virus outbreak takes place. She manages to survive the initial outbreak along with a few other people. Shortly after, Leon Kennedy is sent in to save the day, and after doing so; the pair realise that they're up against a much bigger threat.
The film is very much like the games; although less exciting since the audience does not get an opportunity to pick up a controller and have a go at blasting zombies themselves. However, it features many trademarks of the series and the animators really did get that side of the movie spot on. Unfortunately, the awful dialogue also makes an appearance (though thankfully there's nothing to rival the "Jill Sandwich"). There's also a number of nods to the game...some of which, it has to be said, are a bit ham-fisted. The story itself is not great and really doesn't get going, which is a bit of a shame. The first half of the film is more action packed, while the second part of the film is more story-orientated and is probably the one that will most interest fans of the series. There's not a great deal of characterisation, although that's not too big a problem as the target audience will already know enough about the main players. All in all, I have to say that this film is not great; but it's a fun watch and Resident Evil fans shouldn't be disappointed.
The film is very much like the games; although less exciting since the audience does not get an opportunity to pick up a controller and have a go at blasting zombies themselves. However, it features many trademarks of the series and the animators really did get that side of the movie spot on. Unfortunately, the awful dialogue also makes an appearance (though thankfully there's nothing to rival the "Jill Sandwich"). There's also a number of nods to the game...some of which, it has to be said, are a bit ham-fisted. The story itself is not great and really doesn't get going, which is a bit of a shame. The first half of the film is more action packed, while the second part of the film is more story-orientated and is probably the one that will most interest fans of the series. There's not a great deal of characterisation, although that's not too big a problem as the target audience will already know enough about the main players. All in all, I have to say that this film is not great; but it's a fun watch and Resident Evil fans shouldn't be disappointed.