Resident Evil: Afterlife

As another entry in the Resident Evil franchise, Afterlife delivers the expected blend of action and horror, though it might leave some viewers feeling underwhelmed. With a familiar plot that stumbles over its own ambitions, the film is both a continuation and a missed opportunity.

A Zombie-Filled Journey

Resident Evil: Afterlife follows Alice, played by Milla Jovovich, as she navigates a desolate world filled with the undead. Her journey is focused on finding survivors to lead to safety while battling the nefarious Umbrella Corporation. This time, she receives unexpected assistance from Chris Redfield, portrayed by Wentworth Miller, as they head to Los Angeles in search of a promised safe haven. However, upon arrival, they find the city overrun by hordes of zombies, leading to a deadly confrontation that questions their chances of survival. The plot pushes through familiar beats, yet lacks the depth to make the stakes feel genuine.

Characters That Miss the Mark

Milla Jovovich continues to embody Alice with a fierce determination, effectively conveying her character’s strength and vulnerability. However, much of the supporting cast, including Wentworth Miller and Ali Larter, feels underutilized, often reduced to mere extras in the grand scheme of the action. Kim Coates as Bennett adds a bit of flair, but the characters often lack depth, making it hard to emotionally invest in their fate. The film's reliance on familiar tropes leaves little room for character development, which might frustrate viewers hoping for a richer narrative.

Stylish but Shallow

Directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, Afterlife offers a visually appealing experience with slick action sequences and stylish cinematography. The use of 3D effects aims to enhance the viewing experience, but ultimately feels gimmicky, lacking the depth that truly immersive 3D can provide. The pacing occasionally falters, particularly in the mid-section where extended action sequences lead to moments of fatigue rather than excitement. While the film effectively captures the chaotic essence of a zombie apocalypse, it struggles to balance visual flair with meaningful storytelling.

Uneven Emotional Landscape

Watching Resident Evil: Afterlife feels like being on a rollercoaster that occasionally goes off the rails. There are moments of excitement, particularly during the action scenes, but they are often interrupted by tedious stretches of dialogue and exposition. The film tries to inject some emotional weight, particularly concerning Alice's journey, yet these efforts often fall flat due to a lack of character investment. The result is a mixture of adrenaline and boredom, leaving viewers grappling with the film's uneven emotional tone.