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Let Cregger cook: Resident Evil movie’s director should be trusted with the franchise until proven otherwise
Destructoid writer argues that Zach Cregger, director of the upcoming Resident Evil film, deserves the benefit of the doubt from fans despite a backlash over creative liberties taken with the franchise. The piece comes as Cregger has faced criticism online for departing from established game lore, prompting him to publicly apologise multiple times during press interviews ahead of the film's release, which the author suggests is an unfair position for a filmmaker with a strong track record to be placed in.
The article highlights fan complaints about anachronisms, such as a smartphone appearing in a story seemingly set during the 1998 Raccoon City outbreak, and disappointment that the film does not feature established characters like Leon S. Kennedy. Cregger, known for horror films Barbarian and Weapons, has defended the project in interviews with Men's Journal and IGN as a genuine, love-driven take on Resident Evil rather than a cash grab, and the film is due for release on 18 September.
In short
- Director Zach Cregger has apologised amid fan backlash over his Resident Evil film
- Fans upset by anachronisms and absence of characters like Leon Kennedy
- Writer urges giving Cregger a chance ahead of the 18 September release
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Cregger’s record in horror and his stated affection for Resident Evil give fans reason to let the film stand on its own merits. Adaptations can benefit from a director’s distinct vision, and departures from game lore or familiar characters may create a fresh story for film rather than simply repeat the games.
The case against
Fans have a legitimate interest in an adaptation respecting the setting and characters that made the franchise meaningful to them. A smartphone in a story tied to the 1998 outbreak and the absence of established figures such as Leon may suggest that the film’s creative choices weaken its connection to Resident Evil, regardless of the director’s intentions.
Explained simply
Resident Evil began as a series of horror video games about people facing outbreaks of dangerous infections and monsters. Much of its best-known story centres on Raccoon City, a fictional American city hit by an outbreak in 1998, and characters such as police officer Leon S. Kennedy.
The series has been adapted for film before, and fans often compare new versions with the games’ characters and story. Zach Cregger, who directed the horror films Barbarian and Weapons, is making the upcoming film; reported changes to the games’ setting and cast have prompted debate about how closely it should follow the source material.
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