Embrace the eerie streets of Raccoon City once again as the iconic video game series Resident Evil makes its way to the big screen. This time, director Johannes Roberts takes the reins, promising a faithful adaptation that harkens back to the roots of the beloved games. However, while Roberts demonstrates his genuine love for the source material, the film falls short on multiple fronts.
A Fan’s Passionate Tribute With Paul W.S. Anderson’s action-packed Resident Evil movies in the past, Johannes Roberts steps up to deliver a more horror-focused experience. As a self-proclaimed fan of the original games, he draws inspiration from the 2019 Resident Evil 2 reboot, resulting in authentic recreations of Raccoon City’s iconic locations, storylines, and characters. Set in 1998, the film takes us back to a bygone era, complete with nostalgic touches like PalmPilots and a ’90s soundtrack.
Mixed Execution Despite the filmmaker’s genuine passion, the execution leaves much to be desired. The characters, though closer to their game counterparts, often feel like one-dimensional stereotypes or mere plot devices. Kaya Scodelario, Robbie Amell, and Hannah John-Kamen, talented as they are, struggle with poorly written roles that push the plot forward with clumsy exposition, leaving little room for character depth. Donal Logue shines as Chief Irons, providing an entertaining performance amidst the mediocrity.
Scares and Effects Roberts aims for a more horror-oriented approach, but the scares remain disappointingly sparse. While the film commits to practical creature effects for some terrifying locals, certain poorly executed CGI moments disrupt the immersion, reminiscent of an era gone by rather than adding to the film’s authenticity. Though die-hard fans may find enjoyment in these elements, it’s unlikely to win over new audiences.
A Missed Opportunity Resident Evil: Welcome To Raccoon City captures the spirit of the games but fails to translate that essence into cinematic thrills. With some scary moments and nods to the source material, it doesn’t fully capitalize on the potential of the Resident Evil universe. For those not already invested in the series, the film may leave them feeling underwhelmed. Perhaps it’s time to explore other game series with stronger cinematic potential.
