Zach Cregger Says He Feels Like He’s ‘Running for Office’ Trying to Get Skeptical Resident Evil Fans ‘Not to Call Me a LARPer’
Zach Cregger, director of acclaimed horror films Barbarian and Weapons, is helming a new Resident Evil movie adaptation that has sparked significant fan debate. The film will not feature any characters or storylines from the video game franchise, instead offering an original horror story set within the Resident Evil universe that incorporates references to game tropes and elements.
Cregger has faced considerable scrutiny from long-time Resident Evil fans regarding this departure from established canon. In response, the director has described feeling like he’s on an “apology tour” while attempting to convince skeptical fans of his vision, comparing the situation to “running for office” as he works to distance his project from the label of a “LARPER” — someone accused of merely playing pretend with the franchise.
Despite the fan concerns, Cregger appears committed to his original approach, suggesting that the film will capture the spirit and atmosphere of Resident Evil while telling a fresh narrative. The director’s visibility in defending his creative choices reflects the heightened expectations and fan attachment often surrounding major video game adaptations.