A new trailer has been released for the upcoming Resident Evil movie, offering a fresh glimpse at director Zach Cregger's interpretation of the famed video game series. The film, which promises an entirely original story within the Resident Evil universe, is slated to arrive in theaters on September 18.
The trailer introduces Bryan (Austin Abrams), a medical courier tasked with delivering organs to a hospital situated outside a quarantined zone, dubbed "Raccoon City General." The lucrative job quickly descends into chaos as Bryan finds himself thrust into a nightmarish scenario.
This departure from directly adapting game narratives has sparked discussion among some fans, with many expressing a desire to see beloved characters like Leon Kennedy or Jill Valentine and familiar storylines featured. However, Cregger has indicated his confidence that the film's unique approach will satisfy longtime followers of the franchise.
Cregger described the movie's narrative as "very Zach," emphasizing that while it is set in the Resident Evil world, it carries his distinct directorial signature. He believes that game fans will ultimately be pleased with the outcome, stating, "I don't think fans of the games are gonna be bummed."
Abrams portrays Bryan as an "idiot" medical courier, a character Cregger likens to Frodo Baggins on his journey to Mordor. "Not that he’s stupid, but he’s not your typical game character, with no combat skills whatsoever and completely inept at survival," Cregger explained. "Bryan is very much an everyman who happens to be burdened with this kind of sacred mission that’s going to take him into the heart of everything."