The upcoming Resident Evil film, helmed by director Zach Cregger, will not feature established characters from Capcom's popular video game franchise. Cregger stated in a recent interview that incorporating legacy characters would feel "inorganic" to the "self-contained story" he aims to tell.
Cregger emphasized that the film's priority is its narrative, explaining that the movie tells an "entirely original story" within the Resident Evil universe. This approach deviates from fan expectations, with some players expressing a desire for adaptations of game storylines and the inclusion of iconic figures like Leon Kennedy or Jill Valentine. However, Cregger believes this original approach will resonate with fans.
"When you watch it, you'll be like, 'This is very Zach.' It's just [that] it takes place in the Resident Evil world. I don't think fans of the games are gonna be bummed," Cregger told Entertainment Weekly.
The film, set to release on September 18, stars Austin Abrams as Bryan, a medical courier who becomes entangled in a perilous adventure. Cregger likened Bryan's journey to that of Frodo Baggins in The Lord of the Rings, describing him as an "everyman" tasked with a critical mission. "Not that he’s stupid, but he’s not your typical game character, with no combat skills whatsoever and completely inept at survival. 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. It’s kind of like Frodo going into Mordor," he explained.
The director's vision aims to deliver a distinct experience that remains true to the spirit of the Resident Evil world while forging its own path independent of the game's existing lore and characters.