Too big, too expensive and too silly: Why video game movies fail

Video game movies often assume that audience wants, or is interested in, game's lore and background

Film adaptations of video games have descended on the unsuspecting viewing public like a Drop Bear. At first they look harmless enough, but they often leave viewers bruised and regretful.

These movies are plentiful. Last year Warcraft: The Beginning grossed US$433 million; Assassin’s Creed, featuring Michael Fassbender, was released earlier this year; and the sixth instalment of the Resident Evil hits Australian screens this week.

The potential to appeal to a devoted fan base – and for new franchises – makes these movies an attractive prospect.

Yet despite big budgets and