The Resident Evil franchise originally started as a popular survival horror video game series created by Capcom. Over the years, it garnered a massive following with its intense atmosphere, engaging storytelling, and memorable characters. It was only a matter of time before the franchise made its way onto the big screen, and thus, the Resident Evil cinematic universe was born.
The Resident Evil movies, which kicked off in 2002, took the essence of the video games and transformed it into a thrilling film experience. Starring Milla Jovovich as the iconic Alice, the franchise became known for its high-octane action, a strong female lead, and of course, hordes of flesh-eating zombies. The initial film had modest success, but it was the subsequent sequels that truly solidified the Resident Evil brand.
The cinematic universe took a unique approach by not strictly adapting the video game storylines but instead creating an original narrative that integrated beloved characters and settings from the games. This decision allowed the movies to appeal to both fans of the games and those new to the franchise, resulting in a fanbase that eagerly awaited each new release.
The final installment of the original Resident Evil movie series, “Resident Evil: The Final Chapter,” was released in 2016. While it concluded Alice’s story, it left many fans wondering if there would be more to come in the cinematic universe. Fortunately for fans, the answer is yes!
In 2021, it was announced that a reboot of the Resident Evil movies was in the works. Directed by Johannes Roberts, the new films aim to return to the horror roots of the video games while exploring different aspects of the Resident Evil universe. The reboot, simply titled “Resident Evil,” is set to feature an entirely new cast, including Kaya Scodelario as Claire Redfield, Hannah John-Kamen as Jill Valentine, and Robbie Amell as Chris Redfield. With this fresh direction, fans can expect a darker, more atmospheric take on the franchise.
In addition to the reboot, there are also plans for a Resident Evil television series titled “Resident Evil: Infinite Darkness.” This animated show, produced by Capcom and TMS Entertainment, will expand the lore of the franchise and delve deeper into the mysterious events that occur within the Resident Evil universe. The series is set to premiere on Netflix in 2021, and with its impressive animation and intriguing storytelling, it promises to be a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.
Another exciting project on the horizon is the live-action series, “Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City.” Directed by Johannes Roberts, this series aims to adapt the events of the first two video games, “Resident Evil” and “Resident Evil 2,” with a more grounded and horror-driven approach. The series will explore the origins of the T-virus outbreak and the ensuing chaos in Raccoon City, offering a fresh take on a beloved story.
With all these new projects in the works, the Resident Evil cinematic universe is poised to thrive in the coming years. Whether it’s the reboot, the animated series, or the live-action adaptation, fans can look forward to an array of thrilling and immersive experiences set in the Resident Evil universe.
The Resident Evil franchise has come a long way since its inception as a video game series, and the success of the movies only serves to highlight its enduring appeal. With the upcoming projects on the horizon, fans old and new can continue to immerse themselves in the world of Resident Evil, bracing themselves for the thrills, chills, and heart-pounding action that the franchise has become known for. The Resident Evil cinematic universe is showing no signs of slowing down, and it’s a testament to the enduring legacy of this beloved franchise.