Director Zach Cregger says he was unprepared for fan backlash to his Resident Evil film, which sparked criticism after its trailer despite his aim to honor the games.
Zach Cregger told BBC Newsbeat he was "not prepared" for the volume of criticism that followed the release of the first trailer for his new Resident Evil movie. Viewers complained about the absence of familiar characters and monsters, and Cregger said he had expected excitement for a film that captured the spirit of the games rather than a direct retelling.
The film introduces an original courier, Bryan (played by Austin Abrams), who delivers a package to a hospital in Raccoon City and becomes caught in a viral outbreak. Cregger said he had no contact with Capcom during production and that Constantin Film, which holds the live‑action rights, declined comment, though BBC Newsbeat was told there was behind‑the‑scenes coordination between the developer and the film’s producers.
Reviews have been generally positive: NME gave three stars, The Jam Report four stars, and Looper eight out of ten, praising Cregger’s translation of game experience to cinema. The article notes that fan reaction remains uncertain, though the film appears positioned for a strong opening weekend.