Review of Resident Evil

Introduction

The success of computer game to movie conversions has been limited in recent years - with rubbish like Super Mario Brothers and Tomb Raider classic examples of style over substance. More recently we`ve had the all-animated Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within, and now, the popular zombie series, Resident Evil has arrived.

This movie tells the story of the "Umbrella Corporation" (which is rather akin to Microsoft in some ways!) who have a secret laboratory deep underground, controlled by a hi-tech computer system. When something goes wrong in the lab, a team go in to shut the system down...

Video

The video is presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen and is of a very high standard, as you would expect from a big-budget movie made earlier this year. The image is free from dirt and grain, and is sharp with plenty of detail.

Visually, the film is excellent, with great set design, excellent set piece scenes and great makeup. The zombies in particular are very good - and there are so many of them!

As you might expect, there are plenty of moments that will have you involuntarily saying "ouch" out loud.

Audio

The soundtrack is presented in Dolby Digital 5.1, and, like the video, is excellent, with full use made of all available channels for music and sound effects.

Subtle effects are used continually to build and maintain the atmosphere - and there are plenty of loud effects from all directions during action scenes.

The dialogue is always clear and understandable.

Features

The extras include a rather entertaining commentary track from the director and producer along with Rodriguez and Jovovich. There are also five featurettes; a look at the zombie makeup and an interview with Marilyn Manson. Rounding things off are several trailers (in Dolby Digital 5.1).

A two-disc special edition is due for release later in the year, which will add numerous additional extras - this may be worth hanging on for if you`re not desperate to see the movie now.

The film is packaged in a black Amaray case.

Conclusion

I first saw this film at the cinema earlier this year, and was very surprised at how much I enjoyed it - this really is the best video game turned movie I`ve seen so far.

The action is great and rarely lets up throughout the film. The high body count and numerous set piece scenes make sure that the film remains entertaining from start to finish.

This DVD provides great visuals and sound, along with a good range of extras - a package that is only let down by the prospect of a two-disc edition later in the year.

Overall, this is surprisingly entertaining and well worth watching.