Blu-ray movie review roundup

Resident Evil: Extinction, Eastern Promises and Saw IV.

Resident Evil: Extinction - Blu-ray

Alice returns in the third movie based on Capcom's successful survival horror franchise, and while once again the film makers have failed to replicate any of the genuine frights that the games have managed for over a decade, Extinction does deliver an enjoyable blood-filled action romp.

What sets Extinction apart from its predecessors is director Russell Mulcahy's (of Highlander fame) decision to set the majority of the picture in daylight, immediately giving the movie an uphill struggle to create scares. So much so that this zombie flick feels more like a straight up action movie. The numerous set pieces are impressive, particularly one involving Resident Evil's famous zombiefied crows, and it all builds to a suitably Resident Evil style boss battle ending - albeit one that is heavily signposted.

Fans of the Resident Evil games will also be pleased to see a supporting role for Claire Redfield - the leader of a band of survivors - and a cameo from Albert Wesker.

The movie's 1080p video presentation is good, but not spectacular, often feeling a little too soft and lacking in fine detail. The audio is much more impressive though, with very aggressive use of the surrounds helping to elevate proceedings to something more than your average action movie.

Extra content isn't great, with a making of feature (in high definition) the best of the bunch. You'll also find a selection of deleted scenes, a commentary track, a trailer for Resident Evil: Degeneration and some largely pointless interactive Blu-ray functionality.

If you're looking for 90 minutes of entertainment during which there's no need to engage your brain then there's certainly value in picking up Resident Evil: Extinction. It's just a shame the overall package is a little lacking in both extras and its visual presentation.

Verdict: 3/5
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Check out page two for reviews of Eastern Promises and Saw IV.