Resident Evil: Special Edition Reviews

What's better than a Sci-fi zombie movie based on a video game series? Well...lots of things. But obviously a Sci-fi zombie movie starring Milla Jovovich would be on the list. Turns out it's about 4 stars better; two for each leg. Okay, Resident Evil probably wouldn't be so horrible as to warrant one lonely star had Milla passed up the offer. But she's definately the highlight on the short list of things this film has going for it. She provides much more to admire than the unimpressive special-effects make-up, for instance. And the supporting cast is so glaringly awful it makes Jovovich appear to have the acting chops of Cate Blanchett. Not that I mean to discredit Jovovich as an actress. Not at all. She does a very competent job in her role, even a commanding job at times. Although it doesn't help that the script refuses to do her or anyone else any favors. The film's intro sets up the premise in a comically heavy-handed matter, and unless utterly stupid, uncreative one-liners are your thing, the dialogue leaves much to be desired. Surely (like most any other mind-less action movie) the film is at its best when no one is talking. The modern, industiral musical score suits the film well, and though not dazzling, even when it fails to effectively establish mood, it isn't overly obtrussive either. And there ARE moments of zombie-killing fun here, but only moments. There just isn't enough mounting suspense or contagious energy to make for a thrilling ride all the way thru. But seeing as I only now, finally got around to watching this one and only expected to be mildly and mindlessly entertained I can admit to being a satisfied customer.