Resident Evil: Vendetta is an animated action-horror film directed by Takanori Tsujimoto and is the third installment in the CGI film series set in the Resident Evil universe. Released in 2017, the film features iconic characters from the video game franchise, including Leon S. Kennedy, Chris Redfield, and Rebecca Chambers. With a focus on intense action and a horror-driven narrative, Vendetta attempts to expand the lore of the series while providing fans with a thrilling experience.

Plot Overview:

The film is set in the midst of a viral outbreak in the United States, where a new strain of the virus known as the “G-Virus” is unleashed, causing a catastrophic event in New York City. The story follows Leon S. Kennedy (voiced by Matthew Mercer), who is on a mission to track down the source of the outbreak. He teams up with Chris Redfield (voiced by Leon S. Kennedy) and Rebecca Chambers (voiced by Nicole Tompkins), who are working for the Bioterrorism Security Assessment Alliance (BSAA).

The main antagonist is Glenn Arias (voiced by John DeMita), a bio-terrorist who seeks revenge against those he believes are responsible for the loss of his loved ones due to viral outbreaks. He employs a new bio-organic weapon (B.O.W.) that poses a significant threat to the protagonists and the city.

As the heroes race against time to stop Arias and prevent a widespread catastrophe, they confront various monsters, engage in high-octane action sequences, and delve into the dark underbelly of bioterrorism.
Performances:

The voice cast of Resident Evil: Vendetta delivers strong performances, effectively capturing the essence of their characters. Matthew Mercer brings a familiar charm to Leon S. Kennedy, maintaining the character’s heroic yet laid-back demeanor. Leon’s character development is well-executed, showcasing his determination to fight against bioterrorism while wrestling with personal demons.

Chris Redfield, voiced by Leon S. Kennedy, is portrayed as a gruff, no-nonsense soldier. His camaraderie with Leon adds depth to their dynamic, providing moments of levity amidst the intense action. Nicole Tompkins’ Rebecca Chambers adds a youthful energy to the group, representing a more scientific approach to the threats they face.

John DeMita’s portrayal of Glenn Arias is suitably menacing, providing a compelling antagonist who is driven by revenge. While his character could have benefitted from deeper exploration, DeMita effectively conveys Arias’s motivations and menace.

Animation and Visuals:

The animation in Vendetta is one of its standout features. The film employs high-quality CGI that brings the world of Resident Evil to life with impressive detail. The character designs are faithful to their video game counterparts, and the environments—from dark, claustrophobic settings to sprawling cityscapes—are visually striking.

The action sequences are fluid and dynamic, making great use of the animated format to deliver thrilling fight scenes, car chases, and confrontations with grotesque creatures. The choreography of the action is well-executed, capturing the frenetic energy of a Resident Evil game while providing fans with the visceral excitement they expect.

Storytelling and Themes:

The film’s plot focuses on themes of revenge, sacrifice, and the consequences of bioterrorism. Glenn Arias’s motivations are driven by personal loss, making him a somewhat sympathetic villain despite his horrific actions. The film also touches on the ethical implications of bioweapons and the moral responsibilities of those who create and wield such power.

While the film offers an engaging storyline, it occasionally falls into predictable tropes common in action-horror narratives. The pacing can feel rushed at times, particularly in the second act, where character development may take a backseat to action sequences. While the film provides entertainment, the deeper emotional impact can be hit-or-miss.

Weaknesses:

One of the primary weaknesses of Resident Evil: Vendetta is its reliance on familiar narrative tropes and predictable plot points. Although the action is thrilling, the overall story arc feels formulaic, and the characters, while enjoyable, could use more depth and development. Some emotional beats may not resonate as strongly as intended, particularly for viewers unfamiliar with the Resident Evil lore.

Additionally, while the film’s CGI is impressive, some action sequences can feel over-the-top or exaggerated, bordering on implausible. This may detract from the tension in certain moments, making it feel less grounded in reality.

Conclusion:

Resident Evil: Vendetta is an entertaining addition to the Resident Evil franchise that successfully combines action, horror, and beloved characters from the series. While it may not break new ground in terms of storytelling, the film’s strong performances, impressive animation, and thrilling action sequences make it a worthwhile watch for fans of the franchise.