Zach Cregger teases a brutal new 'Resident Evil 2': “You’re always worried about how many bullets you have”

Highlights:

• Cregger’s first experience with Resident Evil began with Resident Evil 2
• The film focuses on an original character rather than retelling game stories
• Survival mechanics like resource management play a key role
• The story unfolds as a journey through constantly changing environments
• Fans can expect numerous easter eggs inspired by the games

Director and writer Zach Cregger is bringing a fresh perspective to the Resident Evil franchise with a new film that pays tribute to its survival horror roots. In a recent discussion, he shared insights into his earliest experiences with the series, his creative vision, and how the movie captures the spirit of the games while telling an original story.

Cregger recalls his introduction to Resident Evil through Resident Evil 2, which left a lasting impression on him. “I think I played 2 before I played 1, and I don’t think I played anything like it. It’s the first survival horror game that I remember playing,” he said. He emphasized how the game’s resource management mechanics stood out, requiring players to carefully consider ammunition and healing items. “You had to be completely aware of how many bullets you had, and how many healing items you had,” he explained, noting how those decisions created tension and immersion.

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That deliberate pacing and sense of vulnerability became central inspirations for his film. While some entries in the series leaned toward a more arcade-like style, Cregger expressed a preference for the slower, more methodical survival horror approach. “I really like the survival horror mechanics of moving slowly and with deliberation,” he said, adding that this was important to bring into the movie.

When discussing memorable scares, Cregger highlighted a particularly intense moment from Resident Evil Village. Playing in VR heightened the experience, especially during the sequence involving a dollhouse and a terrifying creature. “It was the only time playing a video game I’ve ever actually just noped out and taken a break,” he admitted.

Cregger’s motivation for creating a Resident Evil film stemmed from a desire to replicate the journey-driven storytelling of the games. Rather than retelling familiar narratives, he chose to develop an original story set within the same universe. “I would rather just kind of celebrate everything I love about the games by telling the story that could exist on the sidelines of one of the games,” he said. The film takes place during the events surrounding Resident Evil 2, following a different character navigating the chaos in Raccoon City.

The protagonist, played by Austin Abrams, is intentionally portrayed as an ordinary person. “He’s just a normal guy,” Cregger explained. “He’s just a good-natured, hapless dude who gets sucked into a nightmare.” This approach reflects how an average player might react if placed in such a situation, emphasizing realism and emotional authenticity.

The environment plays a crucial role in both the games and the film. Cregger stressed the importance of constant change and discovery. “The environment has to keep changing, and you have to be able to keep discovering new places,” he said. Each new location introduces unique dangers, reinforcing the sense of progression and unpredictability.

Fans of the series can also expect numerous references and easter eggs. Drawing inspiration particularly from Resident Evil 4, Cregger incorporated recognizable elements such as healing items and visual details. “There’s a lot of little visual things and thematic things,” he said, assuring that longtime players will notice familiar touches.

Despite his respect for the source material, Cregger acknowledged the challenge of meeting fan expectations. “I feel so sensitive about talking about the movie on behalf of the game fans,” he said, noting that some might prefer direct adaptations. However, he remains committed to delivering a story that honors the franchise differently.

When asked which character he would rely on if placed in such a scenario himself, his answer was immediate: Leon. “I would just bear hug myself around him, close my eyes, and just let him protect me,” he said.

Cregger’s Resident Evil film is set to release in theaters on September 18.