Cover Zach Cregger, the director behind ‘Weapons’, takes on ‘Resident Evil’ in his latest box-office outing (Photo: Columbia Pictures)
Zach Cregger, the director behind ‘Weapons’, takes on ‘Resident Evil’ in his latest box-office outing (Photo: Columbia Pictures)
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Our review of Zach Cregger’s ‘Resident Evil’ finds a film that does more than simply adapt the game; it powerfully recreates the gripping experience of being trapped within its terrifying world
Zach Cregger, celebrated for his directorial triumphs in horror films like Weapons and Barbarian, is embarking on an exciting venture with Capcom’s iconic game franchise, Resident Evil. As a self-proclaimed fan of the series who has dedicated thousands of hours to the survival horror and action-horror games, Cregger is well-equipped to explore the rich lore of this beloved franchise. Notably, he has made it clear that he will not be creating a direct adaptation of the video game.
In a live interview with IGN, he stated, “What I’m trying to do is make a Resident Evil movie that truly serves as a love letter to the experience of playing a Resident Evil game.” Passionate fans of Resident Evil like myself fully recognise that Cregger has successfully captured the essence of the video game. His main character, Bryan—an ordinary courier played by Austin Abrams—perfectly embodies the experiences of Resident Evil players, who often find themselves engulfed in panic and frustration due to the intense anxiety provoked by the eerie atmosphere and unexpected threats.
Above A look at ‘Resident Evil’ by Zach Cregger (Photo: Columbia Pictures)
A look at ‘Resident Evil’ by Zach Cregger (Photo: Columbia Pictures)
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Cregger doesn’t just reference the player experience; he masterfully integrates key game elements that resonate deeply with fans. He showcases the progression through various locations, known as “maps” in the video game, as characters navigate puzzles, encounter terrifying jump scares, acquire new weapons and use point-of-view camera angles. Furthermore, he features the iconic typewriter save points and the notorious frustrations of locked doors and gates, ensuring that the film is a true homage to the spirit of the games.
See also: ‘The Odyssey’ review: Christopher Nolan’s most ambitious film might also be his best?
Above A look at ‘Resident Evil’ by Zach Cregger (Photo: Columbia Pictures)
A look at ‘Resident Evil’ by Zach Cregger (Photo: Columbia Pictures)
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Incorporating humour into Resident Evil comes naturally, as the video game series has long integrated comedic elements into the experience. Cregger seizes this opportunity by infusing the film with his distinctive comedic style. In an interview with BAFTA, he confidently stated that he included a significant amount of comedy in the script, although he did make some cuts during editing. Nonetheless, the film is packed with humour that has resonated well with audiences, including dedicated fans of the game franchise. This comedic element is a major factor in making the film enjoyable for both gamers and newcomers alike.
See also: Gird your loins: an honest review of ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’
Above A look at ‘Resident Evil’ by Zach Cregger (Photo: Columbia Pictures)
A look at ‘Resident Evil’ by Zach Cregger (Photo: Columbia Pictures)
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Ultimately, Cregger’s Resident Evil works because it captures the feeling of playing the games—the vulnerability, panic, curiosity and occasional absurdity that fans know so well. Through its atmosphere, familiar mechanics, scares and humour, the film creates an experience that feels authentic to the franchise while remaining accessible to newcomers.
Above A look at ‘Resident Evil’ by Zach Cregger (Photo: Columbia Pictures)
A look at ‘Resident Evil’ by Zach Cregger (Photo: Columbia Pictures)
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For longtime fans, it is a thoughtful love letter filled with details that reward familiarity, while non-gamers can simply enjoy it as an entertaining horror film. With its immersive sound, sudden scares and moments that invite a reaction from the audience, Resident Evil also benefits from the energy of a cinema setting. It is a fun, frightening and distinctly Resident Evil experience that deserves to be seen on the big screen.
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