Resident Evil makes smooth transition to screen
After a multitude of video game-to-film flops, you would think Hollywood would be discouraged at the prospect of making another one. Yet out of the blue comes a film that fares better than most run-of-the-mill action flicks, Resident Evil.
In a time not so far from ours, the world is dominated by the Umbrella Corporation. In one of their secret research facilities deep beneath Raccoon City, viral outbreak has occurred. An outbreak that’s about to turn the place into a living hell.
Director Paul Anderson seems to be one of the few Hollywood directors who understands how to make movies out of existing franchises.
Taking a hint from X-Men, Anderson intelligently condenses the premise behind the game then adds in as much action as possible. And guess what? This formula actually works.
There’s hardly a serene moment in the film as the heroes get thrown from one danger to the next.
Yet somehow, the high tension is paced well enough so that it doesn’t become too overwhelming.
If you’re familiar in any way with the genre of the zombie flick, you’re in for a treat. Anderson is surprisingly sensitive to the hallmarks of the genre.
Gamers will be surprised at the faithfulness of the film to the game, with set designs you could swear were lifted directly. The hopelessness, tension and sheer terror you’re familiar with are jumping at you from the big screen.
Milla Jovovich doesn’t break any new ground in her acting career here. She could be rehashing her role from The Fifth Element. Michelle Rodriguez delivers a much more amusing performance as she uncannily deadpans every B-grade line the script has her utter. And believe me, those are some lines indeed.
The result? The action is plentiful and obvious Matrix references abound. If you want sheer escapism and edge-of-your-seat thrills, Resident Evil is one to watch.
