Review of Resident Evil: Retribution (2012) by Matt L — 02 Jun 2013

Like so many of the previous reviews lately, here's another film that simply extends a film franchise - seemingly to bring in more money and stay relevant. It should also be noted that Resident Evil 6 (video game) is also coinciding with the film release. Did the parent companies seriously release the film and game a month apart so they wouldn't conflict with one another? Coincides are silly, right???

Anyway - what is it about zombie movies that just seem so boring these days? Maybe it's the fact that they literally keep coming, to the point that maybe there should be a period of time where zombies aren't allowed to drag their feet, eat the brains, and flail their arms relentlessly. They need to sit down and relax for a while before audiences' brains simply explode from repetition. Example - within the last few years, there's been The Crazies, Dawn of the Dead, Zombieland - oh, and five Resident Evil films.

Resident Evil: Retribution is the fifth installment of the Resident Evil franchise, which comes only weeks after the summer blockbuster season concludes, meaning maybe the studio didn't have complete faith in it? Regardless, the plot is similar to the last four films, but it will never - no matter how many of the original characters return - be as good as the first or even second film.

As usual, Milla Jovovich returns as Alice to take on the dreaded Umbrella Corporation, who has finally caught Alice, only to lose her - and then team up with her against the Red Queen. Confused? Well, let's wait until the next film for some more clarity on who's good, who's bad, and how much of the world isn't completely destroyed. Michelle Rodriguez co-stars in dual roles (both of whom are clones - naturally), along with new-comer Aryana Engineer as Alice's daughter.

In the end, there's very little need for a review of the plot/graphics/plot because it's the same as the previous films. If you've seen the first four films and enjoyed them, then you will most likely enjoy this new film. It's action-packed with lots of bullets and explosions. There are zombies/monsters at every turn to provide the scare factor - and the 3D is pretty decent (even though it's a money racket, too).

This film this is simply more of the same. Each new film in this franchise is essentially the same plot recycled over and over, simply delaying the announcement of a final installment to bring the franchise to an end. However, as with other franchises, if the money keeps coming, the movies will keep being made. With that being said - anticipate a few more films in the future.