Zach Cregger's recent Resident Evil film has sparked debate among fans and critics alike due to its departure from the source material. While Cregger's movie follows a general populace during the Raccoon City collapse rather than focusing on specific S.T.A.R.S. members, this deviation has created a divide between those prioritizing faithfulness to the game and those valuing overall cinematic quality.
In response to the film's unconventional approach, a multiplex in O'Fallon, Missouri, has produced a short video that meticulously recreates the feel of the original PlayStation Resident Evil game. Posted to the Marcus Theatre's social media, the clip features assistant manager Isaac Etter embodying Jill Valentine. Etter navigates the familiar environment of the movie theater, including concession lines and fixed camera angles, to collect a Resident Evil-branded popcorn box and manage his inventory. The video culminates in a scene reminiscent of the iconic "turn around zombie" encounter, with a "ghoul/coworker" hunched over spilled snacks.
Marcus Theatres stated that they "prioritize tapping into the talent of our associates by encouraging them to create innovative and original content at their respective locations." The company further elaborated that Etter's idea was "brilliant," aiming to "emulate the humor and fun of the original video game."
Despite the controversy, Cregger's Resident Evil film achieved a strong opening weekend, grossing $60 million. This success marks a record for both the director and the franchise. However, the scrutiny from gamers has reportedly impacted the director, potentially diminishing the likelihood of a sequel from him. Should Capcom seek a director with a more accuracy-focused vision, the O'Fallon assistant manager's faithful recreation demonstrates a clear passion for the original game's aesthetic.