After a virus outbreak in a small town in 1998, a group of survivors try to escape with their lives.
Director/writer Johannes Roberts' adaptation delivers a big film feel on a modest budget with visual flair. Without drawing comparisons to Resident Evil (2002), what's palpable about Roberts’ (47 Meters Down) offering is the John Carpenter vibe, from The Thing-like monster effects to echoes of Assault on Precinct 13. This coupled with an infusion of George A. Romero's DNA; you can tell Roberts knows what atmosphere he's creating, as well as encompassing callbacks to the games on which it is based.
The creepy orphanage scenes offers that modern horror feel, along with plenty of action, the special effects, especially the practical effects work. The sets ups are great from the opening hit and run to the attack on Claire in the house. The car park, mansion shoot-out and jail scene are also striking. With more visual references to the game than you can shake it stick at. There is a good mix of horror action, even if the run time feels short.
While Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City's character development is a little rocky, pacing especially in the last act and the script a little bumpy. The City feels more like a small town. The ending feels borrowed from countless others including the likes of The Crazies, Return of the Living Dead. Nevertheless, zombie and "Nuke 'em" tropes aside all is forgiven with the brilliant attention to detail nods and eerie atmospherics from the outset.
The cast to a great job, Kaya Scodelario is on form as Claire Redfield and Tom Hopper's Albert Wesker is notable (and gets a obligatory mid-credit scene). Hannah John-Kamen's Jill Valentine doesn't get enough to do. Avan Jogia's take on Leon S. Kennedy, who teams up with Claire is likeable. Actor Donal Logue as the chief of police Brian Irons is memorable. Neal McDonough delivers his usual bad guy effortlessly.
Overall, a few niggles aside, while not perfect, it's a solid enough reboot and a homage to both the horror genre and the games respectively. Recommend.
No comments:
Post a Comment