CheckMag | 4 video game movie and TV adaptations from the 21st century that are worth watching

With a legacy of seven movies and a Netflix series, Resident Evil has a rich history as an adaptation of Capcom's iconic zombie survival video game. The original one in 2002, however, stands out with its focus on action over intricate background details. Milla Jovovich's portrayal of Alice is noteworthy, and the film's setup for sequels was ahead of its time.

Combined with Paul W.S. Anderson's unique world-building, these elements make the series a landmark in translating video game action and horror to the screen, offering fans an array of memorable moments and a strong, enduring lead character.

Purchase the original 2002 Resident Evil movie on Amazon to experience the action firsthand.

Drawing inspiration from the 2013 game, the Tomb Raider (2018) movie presents a fresh take on Lara Croft, offering a tribute to a beloved gaming era. The movie is always compared to Angelina Jolie's earlier series but it is a really good film on its own, showing how much the series has improved since the 2000s.

Alicia Vikander's portrayal adds depth and vitality, shifting Lara's comfort zone from ancient ruins to London's urbanity. This movie signifies a turning point for video game adaptations, stepping confidently into the spotlight with a compelling cast and setting the stage for future explorations.

Watch Lara Croft's latest adventure by purchasing Tomb Raider (2018) on Amazon.

The Assassin's Creed (2016) movie, set within the same universe as the games, introduces Callum Lynch (Michael Fassbender) exploring his ancestor's life in historical Spain. The film (available to watch on Amazon) took a unique approach with Ubisoft, the game studio, actively involved in the creative process.

While it may not have been a blockbuster, it stands out as an artful adaptation, marked by a deep understanding of the game series' world and narrative. The decision to stay true to the intricate, story-rich world of Assassin's Creed was a strategic move. This serves as an example of a video game movie crafted with care and insight, even if it didn't dominate the box office.

HBO's The Last of Us (2023) has gained so much praise and attention from audiences that it deserves a spot on this list as a superior video game adaptation. With Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey's impressive performances, the narrative follows Joel and Ellie's journey through a post-apocalyptic world destroyed by a fungal outbreak. This tale of survival and evolving father-daughter bonds is crafted with emotional depth and action by creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann. The show takes some scenes and lines straight from the game, while also adding new, deeper ideas that the game didn't cover.

You can stream The Last of Us now on HBO.