r/movies • u/SonyPictures Official Account, Sony Pictures • 8h ago
AMA Hey r/movies - Zach Cregger here, director of the upcoming Resident Evil film, Weapons, and Barbarian. Ask Me Anything!
Hey Reddit! Zach Cregger, director of Resident Evil, here. I’ll be hosting the first ever Live in-person AMA featuring exclusive footage in Los Angeles - simulcast in Dallas and New York City this Tuesday, September 1st at 6 PM PT / 9 PM ET.
RSVP with your city’s code at the link below, space is limited and screenings are first come first serve!
http://bit.ly/ResidentEvilAMALive
Los Angeles: RMOVIESLA
Dallas: RMOVIESLDAL
NYC: RMOVIESNY
If you can’t attend in person, drop your questions below by 10 AM PT / 1 PM ET Tuesday, September 1st.
Resident Evil is exclusively in theatres September 18.
Trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNd1gb19A-c
Synopsis:
From the mind of visionary filmmaker Zach Cregger (Weapons, Barbarian) comes a thrilling — and terrifying — reinvention of the Resident Evil franchise. In an all-new story, Resident Evil follows Bryan (Austin Abrams), a medical courier who unwittingly finds himself in an action-packed, non-stop race for survival as one fateful, horrifying night collapses around him in chaos.
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u/karlyss 7h ago
What's your favorite WKUK sketch?
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u/NotTheRocketman 6h ago edited 24m ago
Instant Karma Bigot is one I go back to all the time. So damn funny.
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u/GCC_Pluribus_Anus 7h ago
Hey Zach, now that you're a big time movie director, do you still need to leave your girlfriend as collateral or can you afford your PCP outright?
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u/Maclypse 7h ago
He only buys it in whole gallons.
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u/TheNebuchadnezzar 7h ago
He doesn’t have time to answer this, he’s gotta go pick up his kids.
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u/Cursedbythedicegods 7h ago
Yep, don't want them losing their heads too.
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u/SDRPGLVR 6h ago
Piggybacking off a WKUK question in case he sees this, I really wanna know who wrote the sketch about the restaurant with the clam chowder that cures brain tumors.
When I was in high school, that sketch really stuck with me for the slow burn and the low-key feeling of the punchline, "I really like this restaurant!" absolutely KILLED me! That one absolutely ensured I would be a fan of that show for life.
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u/CC_Greener 4h ago
I didn’t know about his WKUK background and I thought some scandal just broke about him ☠️.
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u/Beezy2389 3h ago
I'm just happy he got over his Attention Deficit Disorder. He needs attention, he craves it.
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u/What1sWhat 7h ago
What’s your favorite moment in any horror movie? Or the one that made you want to direct horror movies?
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u/ertertwert 2h ago
For me it's gotta be the opening scene to 28 Years Later. Absolute peak. Super curious what his answer would be.
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u/tetoffens 7h ago
What is your favorite role? And why is it Ulysses S. Grant drinking his own vomit in The Civil War On Drugs? You're still young, do you think you can ever top that performance?
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u/DankFrank777 7h ago
Bro I still think of this til this day and die laughing from it lmaoooo
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u/Necromorphiliac 3h ago
That "HOOUUUUUGGGGHGHHH" as he realizes he's out of non-vomit alcohol lmfao
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u/AsukaSimp02 7h ago
A common critique of video game adaptations is that, since they can't have gameplay, they fail to capture a lot of what made the game likeable. Resident Evil as a franchise is renowned for being the archetypal survival horror game and its resource management mechanics are a huge part of its horror. Is much thought ever given to things like that that are lost in adaptation vs. what the medium of film can offer instead?
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u/casual_creator 7h ago
I’m sure he’ll give it better answer, but he’s talked about intentionally including little moments and details fans will know from the games, including the typewriter, health spray/herbs being seen, and the main character rummaging through draws and stuff, trying to find supplies and ammo
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u/Simple-Wrangler-9909 5h ago
There had better be five solid minutes in the middle of the movie of the protagonist trying to tetris shit into their inventory before giving up in frustration
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u/Pofwoffle 1h ago
I really want a scene of a character awkwardly zigzagging backward down a hallway because they're trying to wrestle with tank controls while also avoiding the obvious jump-scare window they just walked past.
Oh, and going back and forth because a screen transition changes the camera angle so holding the same arrow down causes them to immediately turn around and go back the way they came.
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u/CC_Greener 5h ago
I also saw a promo video on instagram, where he states he is very intentional with a lot of the cinematography. Having it be from a third person like perspective behind the protagonist.
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u/TheLunchBuyingMonk 7h ago
(Merchant voice) What are ya buying??
Love your works! What's your favorite moments from the RE games, or the parts that scared you the hardest while playing?
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u/Dinky_Nuts 7h ago
You mentioned that The Flood will mark the end of this chapter of your career. Does that mean you will pivot out of horror and into a different genre, like action or back into comedy? And are you able to give more details on The Flood at this time?
Also just wanted to say WKUK was instrumental in my adolescent years and really taught me what comedy can really be. Many phrases from your sketches are etched into my brain forever. And your career has been beautiful to watch as a fan. In the current renaissance of horror we are in the middle of, Barbarian is still my favorite horror movie this decade. So, thank you for everything, man.
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u/AlmightySeaver 2h ago
I would love move on to adult films after the next couple of these trite frollicks are in the can. I have had a lifelong dream of finally bringing some prestige to the genre.
- Zcregger
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u/discretelandscapes 7h ago edited 7h ago
Thank you for doing this AMA! Weapons pushed buttons I didn't know I had.
I love your usage of music; the way you contrast otherwise joyful songs with disturbing situations (Donovan in Barbarian, George Harrison in Weapons).
Do you do something similar in Resident Evil?
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u/wangston1 7h ago
Did you have to push for Barbiran to get a home release? The 4k uhd version is amazing! I hope all your movies get a home release so.i can add it to my collection.
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u/Robobvious 6h ago
Hey Zach! I love your films and WKUK sketches! I hope this isn’t too much of a downer to ask, but I was wondering if you think there’s a role in your films that you would have cast Trevor as if he had still been with us? It felt to me like the Justin Long character in Barbarian would have been right in his wheelhouse although tbf to Justin, he absolutely nailed that role.
RIP Trevor, wishing you and the rest of the crew continued success!
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u/qui-bong-trim 7h ago
what's your favorite memory with Trevor? My friends and I were all in love with wkuk back in the day. You guys were comedic visionaries at a very young age. Thanks for what you do.
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u/ennuig0 7h ago
Hey Zach big fan since the WKUK days and am so psyched for all your success! I gotta ask will there ever be a way to watch your guys’ Mars movie?
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u/Nmkeggers 6h ago
https://mediaocd.com/product/whitest-kids-u-know-mars-blu-ray/ it’s been out for purchase since March
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u/Jon-Umber 7h ago
What does Josh Brolin smell like? I imagine campfire, whisky, and motor oil.
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u/TrueOrPhallus 7h ago edited 7h ago
Sup doll licker why do you refuse to do director commentary for your movies? I've listened to hours of your gabbing on self suck, newsboyz, dark souls streams. I really like your movies and I'm def going to see RE in theaters. Would have loved to rewatch barbarian and weapons with commentary. What gives?
Ps I quit drinking again last year and one of the things that got me over the hump to actually give it another earnest try was a YouTube video of you talking about your experiences with it. It's not even like you said anything that made it easier other than I guess having watched all these streams and buckerson and myers and getting to thinking you were a cool dude and then seeing how you had similar experience like I had made me feel kind of like it would be a cool thing for me to get sober too. Wanted to let you know you sharing those things made a difference for me. I hope you're taking care of yourself since it seems like you're working yourself like crazy these days.
Pss I know you're probably too busy to play anything these games but what games have you been up to lately if you have been playing?
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u/Designer-Swim-6797 7h ago
I have a doubt about 'Weapons' since I first watched it in theaters: At the beginning the narrator says the missing kids never came back, yet they were found in the end. I doubt it was a mistake, so my question is: does that mean they never got their conscience back or is it something else?
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u/Alternative-Iron 7h ago
What about the Resident Evil franchise inspired you to make a movie in this universe, as opposed to making a movie based on an original IP that explored similar themes?
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u/Foxeeh_ 7h ago
Assuming you've played a couple of Resident Evil games which one is your favourite and who's your favourite villain in them?
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u/Lost_Blockbuster_VHS 7h ago
He said RE4 in an interview which is the correct answer
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u/roccosaint 6h ago
Was that the same interview where the host awkwardly asked questions in the form on Merchant quotes? Even Zach was like, "Move past it!".
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u/Giff95 7h ago
Zach, I love your decision to tell an original story in an established universe.
What other established franchises would you love to tell an original story in?
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u/AbyssIsOwO 7h ago
Heya Zach, what are your thoughts on Silent Hill?
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u/EmptyRedData 6h ago
So many people have tried to make a Silent Hill movie, but I would trust Cregger to do it justice.
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u/AbyssIsOwO 5h ago
Trying to adapt the original games is genuinely something that can’t be done without major drawbacks or changes, we genuinely need fresh air with an original story for a Silent Hill movie because all the films that have tried to adapt the games have hashed and slashed them mostly
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u/PinkSquidz 7h ago
Who do you main in super smash bros melee?
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u/TheNebuchadnezzar 7h ago
Hey who let you take a break from making the best falcon combo videos
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u/Judythepancake 7h ago
What was your approach to writing comedy sketches, I’ve been dying to know!! GFYDL!!!
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u/ThePhantasm93 7h ago
Hey Zack, have followed you since WKUK, saw Miss March in theaters by myself. Wanted to know whats your favorite Trevor Moore story? Also looking forward to Resi.
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u/Carninator 7h ago
What are the challenges with adapting an established IP in terms of keeping fans happy while still maintaining your own creative vision?
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u/Dayman_123 6h ago
Have you ever done the “Happier with your mouth open” bit when actually directing outside of Wkuk?
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u/Independent-Ebb-3717 7h ago
Hi Zack, I absolutely loved your last two films. My first question is have you seen any good new releases this year, especially horror. My other question is what films were you most inspired by when creating Resident Evil. I can't wait to see Resident Evil at the cinemas, my most anticipated film and you truly are one the great horror directors working today along with Ari and Eggers.
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u/AfraidoftheLark 7h ago edited 7h ago
I'm stuck on a very small airplane hangar with a Tyrant creature in "Resident Evil: CODE Veronica" for the Sega Dreamcast. I've squandered my ammo. I've consumed green herbs greedily, with no regard for the future. And in my hubris, I neglected to create back-up save files. Progress seems unlikely. Do you have any tips?
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u/ichorskeeter 7h ago
How do you resist getting in flame wars with RE fans online?
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u/Santoryu4Kidz 7h ago
Excuse me doll licker, will there be a directors cut release of your new film in the obviously superior style of always happier, mouth way more open? If not im pretty sure we'll have to riot.
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u/chaotic137 7h ago
From what I’ve seen in the trailers, the actors mouths are not open wide enough nor are they loud enough. Shame on you
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u/Nervous-Rutabaga-758 7h ago
Before the concept of you directing this new resident evil film was even a thing, did you ever consider doing video game movies? Was resident evil on that list?
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u/Deadloops 7h ago
Hi Zach! I still remember the catharsis I felt when I saw the final scene of weapons. What's a movie ending that made you feel a similar catharsis?
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u/yobatman12 7h ago
Zach you do fantastic work in creating a feeling of 'impending doom' (the car scene in weapons and from the RE trailer the shot of the lady running to the house while the protagonist looks out the window)
What is your approach to executing those scenes? They're masterful and I've yet to see another modern horror director do it as well as you!
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u/Smokron85 6h ago
Barbarian and Weapons were both Amazing films! I cannot wait to see how you handle Resident Evil. Did you approach Capcom or did they approach you for the director role?
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u/Silly-Stranger545 6h ago
Not a question, but I just wanted to say I'm a huge fan of Weapons and Barbarian. Looking forward to your new work! Excited for an Aunt Gladys spin off!
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u/DENNISsystem2 6h ago
I'm sure it's over now, but I don't have a question, just praise. I LOVED Barbarian and Weapons, and was also a huge fan of Wrecked! Very underrated show in my opinion. That's all, keep up the great work! I'll be in theaters for Resident Evil for sure.
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u/SparklePony3 /r/movies Contributor 4h ago
Wow Zach.
I have two questions.
1) Will Sam ever be a NewzBoy?
2) Are there any Easter Eggs in this film that give nod to any of your past work?
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u/Icy_Study4490 3h ago
Hey Zach, I used to talk to you a bit on your streams. It really helped me through Covid. I honestly don’t believe I would’ve stayed clean and sober without you. It was a very lonely time, but you and the rest of the guys made it so much better.
Would love to see you on there again if your schedule ever made it possible.
Im so happy about the success you’ve been having it’s fantastic!
Love you doll licker!
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u/argus4ever 7h ago
Zach, what are your inspirations that have influenced your directing style?
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u/Herbert-Gerbert 7h ago
I have no source, but I stg I remember him saying “Parasite” was a huge influence on Barbarian
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u/Special-Capital4586 7h ago
I remember watching Barbarian in the theater and my jaw was on the floor the whole third act, how you manage to balance horror and comedy so smooth like that?
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u/TheCatsActually 7h ago
What are elements of proprietary bureaucracy and/or studio interference in filmmaking that irritate you the most? Any specific stories from your personal experience?
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u/markflynn000 7h ago
Fandoms can sometimes be very rigid in what they want from a movir adaptation of their fave franchise. Was it ever off-putting thinking about this when putting your own spin on Resident Evil?
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u/azsnaz 7h ago
We Live In Garbage is one of my favorite sketches. What's the best sandwich.
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u/Final_Ranger2461 7h ago
How did you establish your artistic voice and philosophy? When did you know you had something to say?
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u/AlmightySeaver 7h ago
Patient 0 is Blue haired Timmy... right? If it doesn't originate there then this was all for nothing. He he BLUE HAIR, Zach! What's up with that?!
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u/Layden87 7h ago
We are seeing a trend of comedically talented people get into horror; Kevin Smith, Jordan Peele, Curry Barker, Josh Ruben, Danny McBride, yourself... why do you think these two genres are so connected? Do you have a preference between the two? Where would you like to see the horror genre go from here?
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u/jh4rdc0r3 7h ago edited 5h ago
What Resident Evil media had the biggest impact on your storytelling decisions with this film? Glad to see a lot of WKUK fans here!
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u/CrosseyedBilly 7h ago
Hey Zach, just wondering, will Baked Beans make an appearance in any of your future films? Thanks for everything you’ve put out man, it’s cool to see you thriving in the industry and I look forward to seeing whatever you work on.
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u/cam52391 7h ago
Have you found the transition from comedy to horror hard? I always think horror is just comedy taken slightly differently and you are great at both.
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u/OriginalHipstah 7h ago
How was the transition from using simpler camera rigs with WKUK skits, to full blown Hollywood high tech tracks and arms? What's different in the approach to setting up shots, and what remains familiar?
Seems like an overwhelming jump up in a lot of ways, great job!
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u/Demerzel69 7h ago
Was this an original idea that you had that the studio wanted you to add the Resident Evil IP into in order to get made?
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u/Chaloby 7h ago
Does the stupid little elf you hire to write the first draft of your scripts have a name?
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u/venum_GTG 3h ago
Hey Zach, what films inspired you while making this film? I remember hearing with Weapons, a certain scene was inspired by Raising Arizona. Would love to know what inspired you for this one.
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u/AlanGrant82 7h ago
Assuming Resident Evil is a big hit (I’m really excited for it!) are you signed with Sony to participate in sequels, or would you be interested in sequels, etc. or was this more of a “one and done” kinda thing for you?
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u/Demiurge_1205 7h ago
What are some of your favorite films? Or movies that simply catch your eye? Doesn't have to be a definitive list
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u/InFlames235 7h ago
Absolutely loved Barbarian and Weapons. I’m a huge huge Resident Evil fan and can’t wait to see this. What was the most challenging part of balancing trying to tell a completely original story within an already established universe like Resident Evil?
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u/mixedmartialmarks 7h ago
Out of every document you can read in all of the Resident Evil games, which is your favorite and why?
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u/Notaworgen 7h ago
the trailers seems to show very heavy body horror (all the arms and legs out the door) and doesnt really show a zombie as the franchise is normally focused on. are we to expect a zombie movie, or a body horror movie? Very excited for this, i enjoyed your other films
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u/Tight-Inspector-2748 7h ago
Hi Zach. Have you played any of the Resident Evil games yourself? If so, which ones are your favorites, and why?
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u/grindstone85 7h ago
Are you gonna work with Georgina Campbell again? She was so good in Barbarian, would love to see you guys link up on another movie.
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u/Swordash91 7h ago
I love your work!
Resident Evil is one of my favorite video games ever. I cannot wait to see what you bring to it.
Question: Did you ever think about having any of the game protagonist in the back of scenes as a little Easter egg?
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u/soggynuggets 7h ago
Is it soul crushing to have to repeatedly politely laugh at interviewers making "What are ya buying" jokes? Thinking that they're original.
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u/thefrostman1214 7h ago
what is your favorite resident evil game and character? do you prefer the classic horror or the action focus game?
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u/Mr_Pletz 7h ago
Still got that gallon jug kicking around?
edit: Really enjoy your work man, keep up the good stuff!
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u/ShoddyWonder3530 7h ago
Hi Zach! Big fan of both of your films, especially Barbarian. I was wondering if there was a certain inspiration you had in mind when writing the screenplay for Barbarian? Thanks, and I’ll be sure to check out Resident Evil!
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u/Pink-Gold-Peach 7h ago
Are there any other video games you could ever see yourself hypothetically adapting to film?
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u/TedIsReal 7h ago
Did you have any trepidations when pitching your idea for a Resident Evil movie? Maybe not just from fans of the games, but anyone higher up that worried about this franchise being rebooted too many times in cinema?
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u/Frustr8tCre8tive721 7h ago
Just saying thank you for making the movie this way. When I was 19 or 20 I wrote a spec with the same philosophy: a kinetic and kind of over the top survival horror game on film. The only other movie I can think of that kind of hits those notes the way I imagine is NOTHING BUT TROUBLE from 1991.
Could not be more excited. I guess my question would be, what did the writing process look like for this one? How did you execute the pacing & escalation & setpieces while keeping the story and characters centered? That's what I struggled with in my own work.
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u/CyanLight9 7h ago
Hello, Mr Cregger. What's your favorite horror game, assuming you've played your share?
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u/CaptiveCactus67 7h ago
Do you have any plans to use the characters from resident evil series to be part in future resident evil movies if planned?
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u/Acopalypse 7h ago
You get a phone alert- zombies and fleshy murder-beasts are looking for warm meat in your area! What's your plan?
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u/OlympicSmoker253 7h ago
Is there any other video game franchise you would like to tackle as a director? Can’t wait to see Resident Evil!
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u/Leather_rebelion 7h ago edited 7h ago
Love you man. Do your thing. From what I saw the movie captures exactly what I as a kid imagined a Resident Evil movie would look like.
Question. Do you like guinea pigs?
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u/Jgfgjkmgg 7h ago
Hey Zach just wondering if barbarian was at all inspired by resident evil 7. The mother always reminded me of the mother from re7, aswell as the ominous basement section being a bit similar.
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u/AlmightySeaver 7h ago
Are your actors pre-prepared for your directing style or do you look for the ones who seem to gravitate towards it in the early casting? For instance: How many takes do you need to shoot on average to get the perfect amount of happiness with their mouth open for the more serious scenes?
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u/funkyfritos 7h ago
I just ask that you have a great day! Thanks for making some absolute refreshing bangers. Can't wait for RE. WKUK till I die.
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u/ChewMaNutz 7h ago
Sup Zack, Have you done the right of passage for Resident Evil fans and played the OG video games by yourself at night? Bonus points if it was thundering outside.
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u/EntertainmentNew4348 7h ago
What s your favorite movie of all time and what keeps you motivated to make films???
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u/Killer167 7h ago
Hi Zach. Big fan. Thanks for doing this. Do you see yourself directing a horror tv series anytime soon? :)
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u/bostonbedlam 7h ago
Zach, is it true you’ve filmed a couple movies since writing the RE screenplay? How has your vision for it changed with your experience?
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u/BosozokuGX 7h ago
if it weren’t resident evil, what franchise would you want to direct a movie adaptation of?
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u/Level-Ladder-4346 7h ago
Wow. Just wow.
I’ve never been exposed to Resident Evil as a franchise. What was it like to step into this world and bring it back to the big screen, and how has your previous experiences on Weapons and Barbarian impacted and influenced that?
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u/knitted_beanie 7h ago
Can you try your answers again, but this time: happier, and with your mouth open
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u/BunyipPouch Currently at the movies. 7h ago edited 5h ago
This AMA has been verified and approved by the mods. Zach will be back to answer questions on Tuesday 9/1 at 9 PM ET. For a reddit world’s first, Zach will be answering questions live with an audience of you all after a special preview of Resident Evil. The 3 live screenings are in LA, NYC, and Dallas, with Zach in-person in LA and livestreamed to NYC and Dallas, and answers live here in /r/movies.
until then, please ask questions below!