[REC]³ Genesis

Synopsis

[REC]³ Genesis is a 2012 Spanish horror film that departs from the claustrophobic apartment setting of the first two movies to explore the origins of a terrifying viral outbreak. The story follows Clara, played by Leticia Dolera, and her fiancé Koldo as they celebrate their wedding in a secluded country house. Their joyous occasion turns into a nightmare when a contagion spreads among their guests, turning friends and family into violent, zombified creatures. Blending horror with action and dark humor, the film offers a fresh take on the franchise by expanding the narrative to reveal the early stages of the demonic infection, delivering intense, gore-filled sequences and thrilling chase scenes that heighten the sense of dread and chaos.

Cast

• 

  Leticia Dolera

  Clara

• 

  Diego Martín

  Koldo

• 

  Ismael Martínez

  Rafa

• 

  Àlex Monner

  Adrián

• Borja González Santaolalla

  Atún

• 

  Emilio Mencheta

  Víctor

Reviews

[REC]³ Genesis received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 44% approval rating, indicating a divided reception. Some reviewers praised its shift in tone and setting, appreciating the injection of dark comedy and action elements as a refreshing contrast to the earlier episodes' found-footage horror style. For example, IGN noted the film "injects a new energy and more traditional narrative structure" compared to its predecessors. However, others criticized it for abandoning the tense, claustrophobic atmosphere that made the original films successful. Metacritic’s score of 45/100 reflects a lukewarm stance, with commentary highlighting a loss of suspense and character depth. IMDb users rated the film at 5.0/10, showing a polarized audience reaction; many fans of the franchise lamented the departure from the found-footage approach, while some appreciated the expanded lore and higher production values. Overall, while [REC]³ Genesis offers a different experience with notable moments of horror and excitement, it divides viewers whether this change is for better or worse.