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Zach Cregger’s upcoming “Resident Evil” film is generating buzz not for its adherence to the original games, but for its fresh take on the franchise. Unlike previous adaptations, Cregger’s version introduces an entirely new storyline within the “Resident Evil” universe, a bold move given the series’ rich lore. Despite this departure, reactions to the newly released trailer suggest audiences are intrigued by its captivating visuals and atmosphere.
The trailer itself is a masterclass in simplicity and suspense. It opens with medical courier Bryan, played by Austin Abrams, making a tense phone call to his partner. He apologizes for being unreachable and ominously hints that they might not meet again due to his dire situation. As the teaser unfolds, viewers are thrust into Bryan’s world of peril, witnessing him sprinting through a snowy landscape, encountering a sinister figure in a sewer, and confronting mysterious limbs emerging from a shadowy doorway.
Many fans seem unfazed by the film’s divergence from the games. Reddit user u/TheFlashyMastodon21 remarked that as long as the movie captures the essence of “Resident Evil,” its originality is welcome. Another user, u/ElPrestoBarba, noted that the trailer encapsulates the game’s spirit, highlighting moments like rummaging through drawers and finding a shotgun, which evoke the classic “Resident Evil” experience.
While some die-hard fans might be skeptical about a film that strays from the source material, Cregger’s reputation as a horror filmmaker provides reassurance. Known for acclaimed movies like “Barbarian” and “Weapons,” he has a knack for crafting exceptional horror narratives. Redditor u/unicornmullet expressed excitement, describing the trailer as distinctly “Cregger-ish” and eagerly anticipating the film’s release.
Another Reddit user, u/G00bernaculum, praised Cregger’s suitability for the project, pointing out that his previous films unfold like video games, with horror-driven early acts transitioning into thrilling finales. Cregger’s unique style and storytelling prowess have earned him significant fan admiration, setting high expectations for his “Resident Evil” entry, which marks the eighth film in the series and the second reboot following 2022’s “Resident Evil: Welcome to Racoon City.”
“Honestly couldn’t care less if this isn’t a straight adaptation of any of the games as long as it captures the spirit, which it definitely looks like to be the case,” said u/TheFlashyMastodon21 on Reddit. Fellow Redditor u/ElPrestoBarba wrote that the trailer captures the feeling of playing the games. “Him rummaging through drawers, finding a random shotgun, dropping into the sewers, seemingly being alone for the most part, that’s all RE to me.”
In Zach Cregger we trust
Yes, a “Resident Evil” movie that deviates from the source material might turn off some hardcore fans of the long-running video game franchise. However, this film has the advantage of being written and directed by new horror maestro Zach Cregger, whose critically acclaimed films “Barbarian” and “Weapons” are proof enough that the franchise is in safe hands. Cregger doesn’t just make horror movies, he makes really good horror movies, and fans are excited to see what he’s cooking up for his “Resident Evil” film. “Looks very Cregger-ish. I am READY to see it,” wrote Redditor u/unicornmullet after the trailer dropped.
Elsewhere, u/G00bernaculum makes a great case for Cregger’s involvement, writing, “Cregger is the perfect writer for this. Weapons and barbarian play out just like video games. Early acts are horror, later acts are thrillers.” It’s pretty astonishing that Cregger has earned this much goodwill and fan respect, but that’s just how good “Barbarian” and “Weapons” are. He looks set to continue his winning streak with his next picture, which will be the eighth “Resident Evil” film overall and the second reboot after 2022’s “Resident Evil: Welcome to Racoon City.”