As of October 26, 2023, the Resident Evil franchise boasts a formidable cinematic presence, encompassing a total of 12 movies. This includes six films in the original Resident Evil series, one reboot, one animated feature film, and four animated films that are canon. This comprehensive article delves into the full spectrum of Resident Evil movies, exploring their chronology, canon status, and critical reception.
A Complete Overview of the Resident Evil Films
The journey through the Resident Evil movies is a multifaceted one, spanning live-action adaptations, animated features, and even a complete reboot. Understanding the landscape requires a clear breakdown of each installment.
The Original Live-Action Series
The original series, starring Milla Jovovich as Alice, cemented the franchise’s foothold in the live-action realm. These films are often lauded for their action sequences but criticized for their deviations from the source material. The films in this category include:
- Resident Evil (2002)
- Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004)
- Resident Evil: Extinction (2007)
- Resident Evil: Afterlife (2010)
- Resident Evil: Retribution (2012)
- Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (2016)
The Reboot: Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City
Responding to fan calls for a more faithful adaptation, Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City (2021) aimed to recreate the atmosphere and characters of the early games. While a reboot, this film contributes to the overall number of Resident Evil movies produced.
Canon Animated Films
These films exist within the established Resident Evil timeline, often featuring iconic characters from the games and filling in narrative gaps. Their inclusion in the overall cinematic count is undisputed by fans.
- Resident Evil: Degeneration (2008)
- Resident Evil: Damnation (2012)
- Resident Evil: Vendetta (2017)
- Resident Evil: Death Island (2023)
Non-Canon Animated Films
While Resident Evil: Infinite Darkness, a Netflix animated series, offers a separate narrative tangent, it is often considered non-canon and not considered a stand-alone movie. So it isn’t included in the total number of Resident Evil movies.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Resident Evil Movies
Navigating the intricacies of the Resident Evil movie universe can be challenging. Here are some frequently asked questions to clarify key aspects:
1. Which Resident Evil movie is considered the best?
Determining the “best” Resident Evil movie is subjective. While the original series, particularly the first film, holds nostalgic value for many, Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City is favored by some for its closer adherence to the game lore. Ultimately, it depends on individual preferences for action, horror, and faithfulness to the source material.
2. Are the live-action Resident Evil movies canon to the games?
Generally, the original live-action series starring Milla Jovovich is not considered canon to the Resident Evil games. These films take significant liberties with the story and characters, diverging from the established video game universe. The canon animated films, however, are considered part of the established Resident Evil universe.
3. In what order should I watch the Resident Evil movies?
For a chronological viewing experience, consider the following order:
- Resident Evil (2002)
- Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004)
- Resident Evil: Extinction (2007)
- Resident Evil: Degeneration (2008)
- Resident Evil: Afterlife (2010)
- Resident Evil: Damnation (2012)
- Resident Evil: Retribution (2012)
- Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (2016)
- Resident Evil: Vendetta (2017)
- Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City (2021)
- Resident Evil: Death Island (2023)
4. What is the connection between the Resident Evil movies and the video games?
The initial Resident Evil movie borrowed heavily from the first game’s setting and basic premise. However, as the series progressed, it largely deviated from the game’s storyline, creating its own narrative separate from the core gaming experience. Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City attempts to more closely adapt the first two games. The animated films strive to connect directly to the game lore.
5. Will there be more Resident Evil movies in the future?
Given the enduring popularity of the Resident Evil franchise, further cinematic adaptations are highly probable. Whether they continue the rebooted narrative or explore other avenues remains to be seen, but fans can likely expect more Resident Evil content in the future.
6. Where can I watch the Resident Evil movies online?
The availability of Resident Evil movies on streaming platforms varies by region and service. Popular options include Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and various on-demand rental services. Consult your local listings for the most up-to-date information.
7. What is the general critical reception of the Resident Evil movies?
The Resident Evil movies have generally received mixed to negative reviews from critics. While praised for their action sequences and visual effects, they are often criticized for their weak plots, deviations from the source material, and reliance on jump scares over genuine horror. However, fan reception is often more positive, particularly for those who enjoy action-oriented adaptations.
8. Which Resident Evil movie made the most money at the box office?
Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (2016) holds the record for the highest grossing film in the series, earning over $312 million worldwide. This demonstrates the franchise’s continued appeal to a global audience, despite critical reservations.
9. Is the Resident Evil Netflix series related to the movies?
There is also a Resident Evil live-action Netflix series, which has one season that exists in its own timeline. It features new characters and a separate narrative unrelated to both the original film series and Welcome to Raccoon City.
10. Are the animated Resident Evil movies worth watching?
The animated Resident Evil films are generally well-received by fans and critics alike, praised for their faithfulness to the game lore, character development, and action sequences. They offer a more authentic Resident Evil experience than the original live-action series for many viewers. Resident Evil: Death Island has received particularly strong reviews.
11. Does the reboot, Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City, connect to the previous movies?
No, Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City is a complete reboot of the film series and does not connect to the original live-action films starring Milla Jovovich. It aims to present a more faithful adaptation of the first two Resident Evil games.
12. Where can I find behind-the-scenes information on the Resident Evil movies?
Behind-the-scenes information on the Resident Evil movies can be found in various sources, including DVD/Blu-ray special features, online articles and interviews, and fan forums. Searching for specific movies or cast members will yield relevant content. Many YouTube channels dedicated to horror films also explore the Resident Evil franchise in depth.
Conclusion: The Evolving Legacy of Resident Evil on Film
The Resident Evil cinematic universe, comprised of 12 movies, is a testament to the franchise’s enduring popularity and adaptability. While the series has experienced both critical acclaim and disappointment, its impact on the action-horror genre is undeniable. Whether you prefer the high-octane action of the original films, the faithful adaptations of the animated features, or the reboot’s attempt to capture the essence of the games, there’s a Resident Evil movie for every fan. The future of the franchise on the big screen remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the zombie apocalypse will likely continue to enthrall audiences for years to come.