The 'Resident Evil' Movie Franchise Just Broke Its Own Records—But Is It Still Scaring Anyone?

Breaking Records, Not Really Scaring Anyone

When I first heard that the newest entry in the Resident Evil movie franchise had already broken its own preview record before Friday even began, I thought, Oh, another one of those moments where box office numbers are more impressive than content. Yet as I sat down to analyze the data and reflect on what this means for the genre, I realized that the franchise's latest offering is less a horror masterpiece and more a nostalgic throwback—albeit one with better production values than most of its predecessors.

"In the realm of horror films, sometimes the only thing scarier than zombies is the lack of a good story."

Yes, the film's box office performance was impressive. The Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City (2021) had been met with lukewarm reviews and tepid ticket sales. This latest effort, however, is not only a financial triumph but also an exercise in cinematic nostalgia—something that might be more valuable than a story that doesn't quite live up to its potential.

What's New in This Zombie-Infested World?

The film introduces a new cast and reboots the lore in ways that feel both fresh and familiar. There are nods to the beloved video game series, with characters like Alice (played by Milla Jovovich) making a return—though it's unclear whether this is meant to be a spiritual sequel or just another cash-grab. The visual effects are polished, and there's a sense of purpose in the cinematography that was missing from earlier installments.

Still, what strikes me most is how the film leans into its own absurdity. In one particularly bizarre scene, we're treated to a high-tech facility where scientists are running experiments on a virus that creates human-like zombies. The absurdity isn't entirely unwelcome—it's almost a wink at the audience—yet it also raises questions about the tone and direction of the franchise.

The Franchise's Legacy: A Mixed Bag

Let's take a quick trip down memory lane. The original Resident Evil movie (2002) was a bold, if flawed, attempt to translate a video game universe into film. It wasn't perfect—there were more plot holes than a Swiss cheese factory—but it had a certain charm and commitment to the source material that made it worth watching.

The sequels didn't fare so well. The third film, Resident Evil: Extinction, tried to be a bigger spectacle but lost its way in the process. And the fourth one? Well, let's just say it didn't exactly win over fans. It was a forgettable effort that lacked the heart of its predecessors and made no real attempt to improve upon the formula.

Then came the reboot—Welcome to Raccoon City. This version aimed to revamp everything, but it still felt like an exercise in rehashing old ideas with new faces. It was a misstep that left fans wondering if the franchise had lost its way—or simply lost interest.

The New Film: A Different Kind of Horror

This latest chapter is different. It's not trying to be a straight-up horror film anymore; it's a high-octane action spectacle that plays with genre conventions. There are some genuinely creepy moments—especially when the zombies start showing up in full force—but the film seems more focused on keeping audiences entertained than genuinely scaring them.

The tone of the movie is lighter, even playful at times, and it's clear that the filmmakers want to make a movie that feels like a party—albeit one filled with walking corpses. This approach might appeal to younger viewers or those who enjoy campy action movies, but it also risks alienating fans who expected something more intense.

But here's the thing: maybe that's okay. If we're being honest, horror films don't always have to be scary—they can also be fun. And for a franchise that's been through so many reboots and reinventions, perhaps the most important thing is to keep people engaged, not necessarily terrified.

What About Milla Jovovich?

Milla Jovovich returns as Alice—a role she has embodied since the beginning. Her presence alone is enough to draw fans back into the world. But this time around, her character feels more grounded and human than ever before. There's a vulnerability that wasn't present in previous films, which adds emotional depth to an otherwise over-the-top story.

Her journey through the film is both thrilling and heartbreaking. She faces a new threat not just from the zombies, but from the very people she once trusted. It's a personal battle, one that plays into the themes of trust and betrayal that have always been central to the franchise.

A Cultural Moment in the Making?

But beyond all the box office numbers and marketing buzz, there's something more at play here. The Resident Evil series has become a cultural touchstone—particularly for fans of the games and for those who remember watching it during their childhood. This latest effort is not just another film—it's a continuation of a legacy that spans decades.

It's also a reminder that entertainment, even in the age of streaming and endless franchises, still relies on storytelling. The success of this film isn't just about how many people show up to watch it; it's about how it connects with fans who have followed this franchise through thick and thin.

The Verdict: A Solid Entry, But Not a Masterpiece

So what do I think? I'm glad the franchise is still alive. It's a welcome surprise that this latest effort managed to capture some of its former magic, especially after the duds of recent years. But it's also a film that will likely be remembered more for its spectacle than its substance.

If you're looking for genuine horror, you might want to look elsewhere. If you're looking for nostalgia and action with a side of absurdity, then this is your movie. And honestly? That's okay too.

• It breaks box office records
• It's not scary, but it's entertaining
• Milla Jovovich delivers a strong performance
• The visual effects are top-notch
• It's a throwback to better times—but also a bit of a nostalgia trip