US director Zach Cregger has brought a new interpretation of the “Resident Evil” video game franchise to the big screen with his latest film adaptation, which premieres in US theaters this Friday. Unlike previous movie versions that leaned heavily on established characters and action-driven narratives, Cregger’s approach centers on capturing the essence and atmosphere of the games themselves.

Cregger, known for his work on “Weapons” and “Barbarian,” drew inspiration directly from the player experience, choosing to tell an original story rather than rehash familiar plotlines or characters. The film follows Bryan, portrayed by Austin Abrams, a courier who accepts a late-night hospital delivery that rapidly turns into a harrowing survival ordeal. Cregger aimed to preserve the feeling of playing the game by shooting the film from Bryan’s point of view, using a first-person perspective that mirrors a typical gameplay experience. The camera movement is designed to follow Bryan’s line of sight, providing a visual style reminiscent of the interactive nature of the video games.

In addition, the film incorporates gameplay mechanics in its storytelling. Bryan’s progression through increasingly powerful weapons—from a pistol to a shotgun and then a machine gun—reflects the way players advance through the game’s arsenal. These elements serve to reinforce the connection between the film and the interactive source material, according to Cregger.

While action is present, the director focused more heavily on horror, emphasizing a “slow sense of dread” that he feels defines the “Resident Evil” games. This marks a departure from earlier film adaptations starring Milla Jovovich, which prioritized action sequences. Abrams, the film’s lead, noted that while he physically trained for the role, the character was deliberately designed to appear vulnerable rather than heroic or superhuman. He admitted he had no prior experience with the “Resident Evil” series before being cast but has since come to appreciate the character’s challenges.

Cregger acknowledged that some longtime fans might be disappointed by the absence of familiar characters and detailed storylines from the games. However, he defended his decision, stating that his priority was to create a film that authentically captures the spirit and tone of the original games rather than attempting a direct adaptation. “If I had tried to stick strictly to the game’s characters and plot, I think I would have messed it up,” he said.

The film represents a fresh take on the “Resident Evil” franchise, emphasizing atmosphere and gameplay aesthetics over narrative fidelity, with the goal of appealing both to fans of the games and to horror movie audiences.