Are the Resident Evil Live-Action Movies Canon?
The Resident Evil series, based on the popular video game franchise by Capcom, has spanned multiple mediums over the years, including live-action films, animated movies, and video games. One of the most frequently asked questions by fans is whether the Resident Evil live-action movies are considered canon within the series. In this article, we will delve into this topic and discuss the status of the live-action films within the Resident Evil universe.
The Resident Evil live-action movies, directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, were released between 2002 and 2016. They follow the story of Alice, a member of a group of survivors who are trying to stop the T-Virus from spreading and infecting the entire world. The films are known for their intense action sequences, high production values, and the inclusion of many characters from the video games.
In terms of canonicity, the live-action movies are considered a part of the Resident Evil universe but not the primary narrative. The video games, particularly the original Resident Evil, serve as the main source of the series’ story. While the live-action films are inspired by the video games, they deviate from the original storyline in several ways.
One of the main reasons why the live-action movies are not considered canonical is the significant changes made to the characters and storylines. For instance, in the live-action films, the character Albert Wesker is depicted as a more tragic figure, whereas in the video games, he is a ruthless villain. Additionally, the live-action movies introduce new characters and elements that do not appear in the video games, further distinguishing them from the primary narrative.
Another factor that contributes to the non-canon status of the live-action movies is the release of the Resident Evil: Retribution, which serves as a bridge between the second and third installments of the live-action film series. This film was designed to fill in the gaps and provide a more cohesive storyline, but it still does not fully align with the video game’s narrative.
Despite their non-canon status, the Resident Evil live-action movies have their own dedicated fanbase and have played a significant role in promoting the series. The films have introduced many new fans to the world of Resident Evil, and they have contributed to the series’ popularity.
In conclusion, while the Resident Evil live-action movies are part of the series, they are not considered canonical. The changes made to the characters and storylines, along with the existence of a separate live-action narrative, have established them as a separate branch within the Resident Evil universe. However, their impact on the series’ popularity and the enjoyment they bring to fans cannot be overlooked.
