Sony Pictures released the official trailer for Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City yesterday on YouTube.
The trailer gives us our first look on what to expect from the upcoming film. The general plot appears to combine elements of the first two games into one story. In addition, the trailer recreates many iconic moments from the games. This attention to detail shows off writer and director Johannes Roberts’ love for Resident Evil.
The trailer for Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City gives us our first introduction to the film’s central characters. Fans of the games will recognize staples of the franchise such as Leon S. Kennedy, Jill Valentine, Claire Redfield and Chris Redfield.
In addition, some of Resident Evil’s iconic enemies make appearances, as well. Notably, Umbrella virologist William Birkin appears to play a major part in the film’s story. In addition, Albert Wesker is here. And RE fans know all too well what his motives truly are. The movie will also give us an itchy taste of zombies, their dog counterparts and even a Licker.
If this isn’t enough for Resident Evil fans to gush over, the set design immaculately recreates the haunting locations from the games. In addition to the Raccoon City Police Department from Resident Evil 2, the movie also ventures into the terrifyingly iconic Spencer Mansion. Both settings were accurately recreated using Capcom’s original blueprints from the games.
Gamers should also recognize the attention to detail in scenes that recreate legendary moments from the games. For example, the haunting moment when players discover the first zombie in the original title is accurately depicted. Even knowing what’s coming, the hunched over zombie’s slow head turn after feasting sends chills down my spine.
You can’t please everyone.
With all the trailer gets right, however, some fans on social media believe the upcoming film leaves much to be desired. Many comments on YouTube point out where the film exceeds in set design, it fails in its depiction of the characters. More than anyone, Avan Jogia’s portrayal of Leon gets the most flak. A number of fans point out that he, and the other characters look nothing like their video game counterparts.
Other fans in the comments add that the film’s CGI appears unpolished. Some even go so far as to criticize Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City for looking more like a low-budget fan film than a Hollywood blockbuster. Much of this criticism dates back to the first set photos revealed earlier this year.
However, even with all the backlash, Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City still appears like it will be the most faithful live-action adaptation to the video games in the franchise. It premieres in theaters November 24 this year in the United States. It premieres November 25 in Australia and December 3 in the United Kingdom.
Via YouTube
