Zach Cregger, renowned for directing the horror film Barbarian and being a part of the comedy troupe The Whitest Kids U' Know, is set to take on a new challenge with a reboot of the iconic Resident Evil franchise. According to The Hollywood Reporter, a fierce bidding war is underway among four studios, including Netflix and Warner Bros., eager to secure distribution rights for Cregger's vision of the classic Capcom survival horror series. Cregger will not only direct but also pen the script for this anticipated reboot.
Cregger's recent work, the 2022 horror movie Barbarian, showcases his ability to craft compelling narratives. The film follows a woman who uncovers a terrifying secret in her rental house. Following Barbarian, Cregger has completed his next project, Weapons, which has reportedly tested exceptionally well with audiences.
For more insights, you can read our detailed review of Barbarian here.
This upcoming Resident Evil reboot marks the second attempt to relaunch the franchise on screen. Previously, Paul W.S. Anderson directed a series of six Resident Evil films featuring Milla Jovovich, which, while deviating from the source material, amassed a global box office total of $1.2 billion. In 2021, Johannes Roberts' Welcome to Raccoon City sought to stay truer to the games but fell short of the quality set by Capcom's original series.
Constantin Film, the production company behind Anderson's and Roberts' films, will again produce this reboot in collaboration with PlayStation Productions. Established by Sony in 2019, PlayStation Productions is tasked with adapting its gaming IPs into film and television projects. Notable works include the movie Uncharted starring Tom Holland, Gran Turismo, the TV series The Last of Us, and Twisted Metal.
Looking ahead, PlayStation Productions has an exciting lineup, including adaptations of Until Dawn, Days Gone, Ghost of Tsushima, Gravity Rush, Helldivers, Horizon Zero Dawn, and a sequel to Uncharted. Additionally, a God of War TV series and a Ghost of Tsushima anime series are also in development.
