The Resident Evil franchise has undergone significant changes since it was first introduced as a video game in 1996. Over the years, the series has evolved into one of the most successful and popular horror franchises of all time. The game’s popularity led to a series of movies that were released between 2002 and 2016. This article will explore the evolution of Resident Evil movies from game to the screen and how they have changed over the years.
The first game in the Resident Evil franchise introduced players to a world of zombie infestation and horror. The player takes the role of a special forces member investigating a series of murders at a mansion. The franchise’s success led to the release of multiple sequels, spin-offs, and merchandise, cementing the game’s popularity in the horror genre while also expanding on the universe’s lore.
It wasn’t long before the franchise started to make its way to the big screen. In 2002, the first Resident Evil movie was released, directed by Paul W.S. Anderson and starring Milla Jovovich as the main character, Alice. The movie was set in Raccoon City, where a virus had caused a zombie outbreak, and Alice becomes a part of a group trying to uncover the secrets buried beneath the Umbrella Corporation, the company that was responsible for the virus outbreak.
The movie’s success led to multiple sequels, each with its own storyline that diverged from the main game’s canon. The sequels included Resident Evil: Apocalypse, Resident Evil: Extinction, Resident Evil: Afterlife, Resident Evil: Retribution, and Resident Evil: The Final Chapter.
The sequels had varying degrees of success, with some performing better at the box office than others. However, the franchise’s popularity continued to grow, with fans continuing to be drawn to the Resident Evil universe’s horror and action elements. Over the course of the movies, there were changes in the storyline, characters, and effects, but the core concept of zombies and the Umbrella Corporation remained a constant theme.
One of the most significant changes for the later sequels was the introduction of more characters from the games, such as Jill Valentine and Leon S. Kennedy. This move was well received by fans as they wanted the movies to be more closely aligned with the games. This change ensured that the movie franchise started to gain more popularity and had a better reception.
In conclusion, the evolution of Resident Evil movies has been an interesting journey that reflects the franchise’s origins and growth over the years. Even though some of the sequels may have been hit or miss, the franchise’s success as a whole is undisputed. The Resident Evil franchise has continued to cement its position in the horror genre while also adapting to the ever-changing demands of its audience. With the recent release of the Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City reboot, it’s clear that the franchise will continue to evolve and grow over time.