[REC]4: Apocalypse

[REC]4: Apocalypse

Starring Manuela Velasco, Paco Manzanedo, Hector Colome, Ishmael Fritschi

Directed by Jaume Balaguero

Synopsis:
Television reporter Angela (Manuela Velasco) endured the terrors of the virus that was released in the apartment complex in the first two films, and she is finally rescued by a team of GEOs, led by Guzman (Paco Manzanedo).  The two are taken to a ship under quarantine to make sure they're clean of the virus, but there's a deadly secret that hides in the bottom pits of the boat, and Angela learns that her ordeal is far from over.

Review:
The "[REC]" series has been a mixed blessing.  All are extremely well-done, but the story changes from film to film.  In one film the virus is simply a zombie-like virus that turns people into bloodthirsty monsters.  In another film, the virus is a religious disease created by the devil himself.  In the third film, there's no continuity whatsoever with the first two, as it takes place in a different city with completely different characters.  The fourth film tries to unite all previous installments, and does so well, but not great.

It would've been a great addition to the series if it wasn't the end.  However, is it really the end?  Hopefully.  It tied everything up somewhat nicely, although it did throw a few plot holes in the mix, but they could be overlooked by the set itself - there's nothing more confined than a boat in the middle of the ocean, completely cut off from civilization.  That adds to the intimacy of the terror and really pulls you in, plus it brings back series regular Manuela Velasco as Angela, who is easily compared to other female horror heroines such as Ripley and Laurie Strode.  She brings a sense of strength to the character, but also an innocence that makes you root for her as she endures a hell that she never thought she'd have to go through.

Summary:
If it were just another addition to the series, it would've been spectacular.  As the ending of the series, however, it felt very lackluster.

My Rating: B+