Zach Cregger's new Resident Evil film has hit theaters amidst skepticism regarding its creative liberties, but early reviews have been largely positive. However, fan reactions are proving more divided, particularly concerning the movie's distinct sense of humor and its controversial ending.
While many Resident Evil games feature protagonists equipped to handle bioweapons, Cregger's film centers on Bryan, a medical courier caught in the initial outbreak. This departure from typical Special Forces operatives means Bryan, unlike characters such as Leon Kennedy, is portrayed as a genuinely terrified individual throughout the ordeal. This focus on the ordinary person's perspective has resonated with some viewers, who found the film's suspenseful moments and set pieces reminiscent of gameplay experiences. One fan on Reddit praised the film, noting that "the POV scenes flowed seamlessly with the film" and that "each set piece felt like an encounter in the game." The ending was also highlighted as "ironically twisted."
This approach has led to a film that some describe as a "somewhat comedic, almost Evil Dead-style horror movie," with humor derived from Bryan's reactions to the unfolding chaos. However, this comedic tone has been a point of contention for purists who desired a more traditional Resident Evil experience. Critics argue that the film deviates too significantly from the source material, with its connections to the games feeling superficial. "If not for 2 key name drops, Raccoon City, and Umbrella, the movie itself can genuinely be renamed into anything else and make about as much sense," one Redditor commented, expressing that the T-Virus and Umbrella's threat felt underdeveloped.
Cregger's directorial choices, influenced by the feeling of playing the games rather than strictly adhering to lore, include moments of panicked resourcefulness, such as Bryan fumbling with padlocks or anxiously searching for ammunition. These scenes have been likened to watching a "scared Let’s Player" navigate a Resident Evil title. Another fan shared that specific sequences, like those set in an RV, a tunnel, or a house, evoked similar feelings to playing the game, appreciating small details like key shapes and typewriters.
The film's pervasive humor has been particularly divisive. While the games sometimes feature campy moments or character quips, Cregger's comedic style is more consistently integrated, stemming from Bryan's exasperated attitude. This approach even led Cregger to cut jokes after test audiences found the movie too humorous. Conversely, some viewers felt the "forced humor ruined a lot of the suspense," with characters perceived as bland or annoying, and a general sense that "something was missing."
The film's conclusion has also generated significant debate. Bryan, after being bitten by an infected child, is revealed to be delivering a crucial component for a cure. As he succumbs to the infection, he ultimately transforms into a monster and kills the scientists who could have developed the antidote. The film ends with Bryan seemingly being gunned down by helicopters atop a hospital, a tragic end that contrasts sharply with the more hopeful resolution of Resident Evil: Requiem.
While some fans found the ending "disappointing" given Bryan's character development and his newfound desire to be a father, others interpret it thematically. As Chris Lambert suggests on FilmColossus, Bryan's transformation could be seen as a morbid fulfillment of his fear of change and growing up, a literal "growing up" brought about by the bite.
The divergence from established lore and tone has left some viewers questioning its "Resident Evil" label, with the debate highlighting the broader challenge of adapting video game properties. The tension between direct adaptation and creative interpretation, and the concern that Hollywood may exploit IPs without respecting their core appeal, remains a central issue for fans.
Ultimately, whether Cregger's film successfully captures the essence of Resident Evil, beyond recognizable names and references, is likely to be the defining point of discussion as more audiences experience it.