Movie Review: “Resident Evil: Vendetta”

Resident Evil: Vendetta arrives as the third Resident Evil animated film. Based on the survival horror video game series Resident Evil, Vendetta follows characters from the games as well as fits neatly into the Resident Evil timeline. Its standalone nature, increasingly genre elements, and masterful execution make Resident Evil: Vendetta a killer flick.

Takanori Tsujimoto-directed Vendetta sees Leon S. Kennedy (Matthew Mercer) return to the franchise after Resident Evil: Damnation and Resident Evil: Degeneration. Franchise star Chris Redfield (Kevin Dorman) joins as does the multi-talented Rebecca Chambers (Erin Cahill). The three protagonists unite to take down Glenn Arias (John DeMita). Arias is a fresh villain intent on using his scientific prowess to introduce targeted zombies to achieve retribution against his enemies.

Unlike its Resident Evil CGI predecessors, Vendetta assumes horror vibe. Whereas Damnation and Degeneration were more action-oriented, Vendetta follows the survival horror formula closely. As a genre film, it’s successful, even executing a few solid jump scares. There’s a pleasant mix of Resident Evil lore as well as standalone elements. For instance, references to Racoon City and Los Illuminados appear. But these aren’t dwelled upon and it’s clear from both a Resident Evil fan perspective or franchise newcomer what’s occurring. This delicate balance is well maintained throughout.

One of the most enjoyable moments finds Redfield entering a dilapidated mansion. It’s not the mansion from Racoon City. Nevertheless, the layout is almost exactly the same. This is a spectacular moment for fans and an enjoyable throwback to franchise roots. The opening scene is one of the best in the film and really sets the tone. Chris leads a military raid in search of Arias as well as kidnapped victims. What ensues is a tense battle between the undead and the military. It’s ripe with suspense and there’s even a zombified kid which takes the horror to new levels.

While there’s loads of horror, Vendetta brings an equal amount of action. In true Resident Evil style, it’s over the top and outlandish. Still, it’s delightful in its zaniness. I like how Chambers is the brains behind the operation and eventually figures out Arias’ master plan. Leon shows quite a bit of depth. He’s wallowing in a pit of self-doubt and it takes Redfield and Chambers to drag him out. “It’s the BSAA’s golden boy and Dr. High Hopes,” he quips when reuniting with Chambers and Redfield in the movie. Arias, despite his treacherous methods, is given a tragic backstory. It doesn’t quite justify his ruthless actions, but there’s a neat origin story.

However, Resident Evil: Vendetta doesn’t allow proper time to Rebecca. Though he gets a ton of screentime initially and proves capable of figuring out Arias’ grand scheme, Chambers sort of disappears during the third act. Additionally, the trio of Redfield, Chambers, and Kennedy seem to take everything in stride. Even the most bizarre moments and massive twists don’t seem to surprise.

Ultimately, Resident Evil: Vendetta comes as a fantastic Resident Evil CGI flick. It’s budding with horror and action elements alike and features three of the most beloved franchise characters. Its references to past Resident Evil lore as well as standalone nature posit Vendetta as a movie for both series fans and newcomers.