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With just a few days to go until its release on September 17th, the new Resident Evil movie has become a hot topic among gamers and horror fans after its latest trailer split opinions across social media. Part of the audience complained that the production strays too far from the iconic story and characters established in Capcom's games — and director Zach Cregger has decided to respond directly to the backlash.
'It wouldn't even satisfy those who asked for it,' says director
In an interview with Interview Magazine, Cregger acknowledged the divided reception of the trailer, but defended the path taken. According to him, a portion of the fans wanted to see 'the characters and story from the games' translated almost literally to the screen, but that type of adaptation wouldn't fulfill him creatively — and, in the director's view, probably wouldn't even please the very fans asking for it. This statement reinforces that the movie will feature a more auteur-driven tone, something already expected from the director of works like Hosts and Brutal Haze.
What the controversy is about
The most frequent criticisms point specifically to script elements and character development that stray from the original game material, sparking memes and heated debates among the franchise's most loyal fanbase. Even so, the buzz surrounding the trailer has also increased the project's exposure, putting Resident Evil back at the center of geek conversations days ahead of its premiere.
Cast and production details
Produced by Sony/Columbia Pictures, the feature is directed by Zach Cregger with a script by Shay Hatten (screenwriter for John Wick 3 and 4). The cast features Austin Abrams in the lead role, alongside Paul Walter Hauser, Kali Reis, Zach Cherry, and Johnno Wilson. The project blends horror and sci-fi elements, maintaining the dark essence of Capcom's franchise.
Hollywood's third shot at Resident Evil
This is the second cinematic reboot attempt for the franchise since the end of the Milla Jovovich era, following 'Welcome to Raccoon City' (2021), which disappointed both critics and audiences, and a live-action Netflix series that also failed to excite fans. It remains to be seen whether Hollywood will finally get the formula right this time — or if the skepticism surrounding the trailer will play out on the big screen.
Information gathered from statements made by the director to Interview Magazine and specialized cinema press coverage.
