A Complete Guide to Watching Resident Evil Movies in Order

The Resident Evil video game franchise is a beloved entity, deeply embedded in gaming culture for over three decades with numerous main games and spin-offs. But Resident Evil is not just a successful video game series; it also features a sprawling movie franchise.

With 11 feature-length movies and two TV series to date, figuring out how to watch all of them in the correct order can be a challenge. This guide is designed to help you navigate the various Resident Evil movie adaptations and their unique timelines.

Live-Action Resident Evil Movies in Order

The live-action RE(Resident Evil) movies kicked off in 2002, directed by Paul W.S. Anderson. These films diverge significantly from the video games, centering around Alice, an original character played by Milla Jovovich. The live-action series consists of six movies that follow a continuous storyline and are best watched in the order of release. Here is the list of the live-action films:

1. RE (2002)
2. RE: Apocalypse (2004)
3. RE: Extinction (2007)
4. RE: Afterlife (2010)
5. RE: Retribution (2012)
6. RE: The Final Chapter (2016)

These movies are filled with action, horror, and a variety of familiar characters from the game series, even if the overarching story is largely original. Watching the live-action movies in release order allows you to see the evolution of Alice’s character, as well as the progression of Umbrella Corporation’s nefarious activities.

Animated Resident Evil Movies in Order

The animated Resident Evil films are an extension of the video game universe and are more connected to the game continuity compared to their live-action counterparts. These films delve into stories that expand upon the games, featuring fan-favorite characters like Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield.

Order to Watch Animated Resident Evil Movies by Story Timeline

To follow the animated storyline chronologically, start with the animated miniseries and then proceed to the movies. Here is the recommended viewing order:

1. RE: Infinite Darkness (2021, animated series)
2. RE: Degeneration (2008)
3. RE: Damnation (2012)
4. RE: Vendetta (2017)
5. RE: Death Island (2023)

The animated series and films provide a more authentic RE experience, with characters and plot points that directly connect to the games. While some of these stories might be challenging for those unfamiliar with the video game lore, fans of the franchise will appreciate the added depth and consistency they offer.

Release Order for the Animated Movies

If you prefer to watch the animated Resident Evil movies in the order they were released, here’s how to proceed:

1. RE: Degeneration (2008)
2. RE: Damnation (2012)
3. RE: Vendetta (2017)
4. RE: Infinite Darkness (2021, animated series)
5. RE: Death Island (2023)

The release order offers a natural progression of production quality and story complexity, making it an enjoyable ride for both newcomers and long-time fans of Resident Evil.

Other Resident Evil Movies and Series

Aside from the major live-action and animated series, there are a few Resident Evil films and a TV series that don’t fit into either of the established continuities. Here’s a breakdown:

• Biohazard 4D-Executer (2000): A short, 20-minute film created for theme parks, this piece features gimmicky effects but is an amusing experience for franchise fans.
• RE: Welcome to Raccoon City (2021): This film attempts to reboot the live-action portion of the franchise, staying closer to the original games. It features key characters like Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine, but due to budget constraints, it did not quite capture the scale of the earlier films.
• RE (2022, Netflix Series): This live-action series reimagines the story, focusing on Albert Wesker’s daughters and the secrets of Umbrella Corporation. It provides a fresh perspective on Wesker but was unfortunately canceled after one season.

Detailed Look at Key Movies

Resident Evil (2002)

The first film in the live-action series introduces Alice, who finds herself inside a facility overrun by zombies. While it deviates significantly from the game in terms of characters, its thrilling action sequences, effective use of music, and horror elements made it a memorable entry into the franchise.

Resident Evil: Retribution (2012)

One of the most ambitious films in the series, Resident Evil: Retribution features an ensemble cast with many characters from the games, including Leon S. Kennedy and Ada Wong. It’s often regarded as a modern action classic, showcasing high-budget effects and intense combat sequences.

Why Watch the Animated Resident Evil Movies?

The animated films, while more niche, are an absolute treat for fans of the games. Movies like Resident Evil: Degeneration and Resident Evil: Damnation directly reference game lore and provide a continuity that the live-action films do not. These movies feel like watching an extended version of the game cutscenes, making them a fun addition for anyone wanting a deeper dive into the Resident Evil universe.

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