The first trailer for the upcoming live-action Resident Evil movie has arrived, and it may be the first genuinely good adaptation of the beloved video game series. Directed by Zach Cregger, whose profile soared after the success of Weapons, the film stars an original character named Bryan instead of iconic game protagonists like Leon or Claire. This bold departure from tradition has sparked intrigue among fans.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Franchise
On first glance, the trailer appears completely disconnected from Resident Evil lore. There are no familiar monsters, no Umbrella Corporation logos, and no recognizable heroes. However, closer inspection reveals subtle homages: fixed camera angles reminiscent of the early games, and Bryan searching drawers for items—a staple of the series. Director Zach Cregger promises more Easter eggs in the final cut, including direct references to Resident Evil 4. 'I took a lot of healing items, I mimicked them exactly, I put them in the film,' he said in a PlayStation Blog interview.
Setting and Story
Cregger has confirmed the movie is set in the same universe as the games, specifically during the events of Resident Evil 2 in Raccoon City. The story follows a different person on a mission during the night of the outbreak, tasked with transporting something from point A to point B while encountering classic game elements like weapon progression and resource management. 'You start with a pistol, you graduate to a shotgun, and then eventually you find an MP5,' Cregger explained.
Why This Approach Works
Capcom's previous attempt at a faithful adaptation, the 2021 Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City, was a critical and commercial failure despite featuring iconic characters. In contrast, Paul W. S. Anderson's original film series was profitable but widely panned for straying too far from the source material. Cregger's auteur status and genuine fandom may strike the right balance, offering a respectful yet original story that could become the first truly great live-action Resident Evil film.
Comparisons to Street Fighter
The Resident Evil movie hits theaters on September 18, followed by a new Street Fighter film on October 16. While the Street Fighter trailer leaned heavily on fan service, Cregger's approach is more restrained. It remains to be seen which strategy will resonate more with audiences and critics.
In other news, the BAFTA-winning game Atomfall is getting a TV show from Rebellion and Two Brothers Pictures, while an animated Rogue Trooper movie is also in development. For now, all eyes are on Cregger's Resident Evil—a film that promises to honor the games without being shackled by them.
