Name: Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City
Genre: Action, Horror, Science Fiction
Released: 2021-11-24T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Kaya Scodelario, Hannah John-Kamen, Robbie Amell, Tom Hopper, Avan Jogia

The opening shot of Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City lingers on a disfigured child’s face, her eyes filled with a chilling mix of terror and rage. This is the film’s first misstep—an attempt at horror that feels more like a cheap jump-scare than a genuine moment of dread.

Director Johannes Roberts’ reboot, set in 1998, aims to be faithful to the first two Resident Evil games, following a group of survivors during a zombie outbreak in Raccoon City. The cast includes Kaya Scodelario as Claire Redfield, Hannah John-Kamen as Jill Valentine, and Tom Hopper as Albert Wesker. The film’s premise is intriguing—a fresh start for the franchise—but the execution falls short.

What works? The film’s commitment to its source material is evident in its attention to detail, particularly in the design of the Spencer Mansion and the zombies themselves. The makeup and practical effects used to create the undead are impressive, harkening back to classic horror films. The action sequences, though sparse, are well-choreographed and tense, with a notable scene involving a helicopter crash that adds a layer of excitement.

However, the film falters in several key areas. The casting is a significant issue. Scodelario and John-Kamen, while talented, fail to embody their respective characters from the games. Claire Redfield and Jill Valentine are iconic figures for fans, and the miscasting is jarring. The dialogue is another weak point—unnatural and often clunky, it pulls viewers out of the narrative rather than immersing them.

The pacing is also a problem. The film struggles to balance its multiple storylines, leading to a disjointed narrative that feels rushed in places and overly drawn-out in others. The character development is superficial, with little time spent exploring the motivations or backstories of the main characters.

Roberts’ direction is competent but uninspired. He relies too heavily on jump-scares and gore to generate horror, rather than building tension through atmosphere and suspense. The film’s visual style is serviceable but lacks the distinctive flair that could have elevated it above other entries in the franchise.

In the end, Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City is a disappointing addition to the series.