Austin Abrams Defends 'Resident Evil's' Brutal Ending as Film Tops $60M
Zach Cregger's 'Resident Evil' reboot has become the franchise's highest-grossing and best-reviewed entry, earning $60 million in its opening weekend. Austin Abrams defends the film's controversial ending, where his character dies and transforms into a monster, arguing that the tragic conclusion is a bold artistic risk. While critics praise the film's fidelity to the source material and Abrams's performance, some reviewers note the abrupt conclusion and mixed tonal shifts between horror and comedy.
Key points
- The film earned $60 million in its opening weekend, the highest for the franchise.
- Austin Abrams plays Bryan, a medical courier who dies and becomes a monster.
- The movie holds a 96% critics score and 91% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
- Abrams argues the ending is a 'risky and gutsy' choice that avoids softening the blow.
- The film is praised for its fidelity to the video game's spirit and Abrams's performance.
Background
Zach Cregger's 'Resident Evil' reboot follows his 2023 hit 'Weapons,' which won an Oscar for Amy Madigan. Abrams had previously worked with Cregger on 'Weapons' and is set to star in 'Whalefall,' directed by Cregger collaborator Brian Duffield, which releases on October 16. The new 'Resident Evil' is the franchise's eighth entry and second reboot, following the 1998 'Resident Evil 2' game. Previous 'Resident Evil' films, particularly the Milla Jovovich-led series, were criticized for drifting from the game's storylines.
How outlets are covering it
The Hollywood Reporter highlights Abrams's defense of the ending, noting his surprise but appreciation for Cregger's willingness to kill off a beloved character. Deadline emphasizes the film's box office success, noting it outperforms other video game adaptations like 'Scream 7' and 'Mortal Kombat 2.' The Guardian praises Abrams's 'Campbell-ish charm' and Cregger's pacing but criticizes the abrupt ending and mixed tonal shifts. Rotten Tomatoes aggregates critical praise, with many reviewers calling it the best 'Resident Evil' film and one of the best video game adaptations ever, though some note the ending feels unfulfilling.
Why it matters
The film's success marks a significant shift in how video game adaptations are received, with critics and audiences praising its fidelity to the source material and its bold, unapologetic storytelling. Abrams's defense of the ending reflects a broader trend in horror and action films to prioritize emotional impact over audience comfort, challenging traditional expectations for a satisfying conclusion.
What to watch
The film is expected to continue its strong box office run, with projections for a global debut of $80 million. Abrams is set to star in 'Whalefall,' directed by Brian Duffield, which releases on October 16. Cregger is also developing 'The Flood,' a project Abrams is avoiding to maintain surprise.
- ‘Resident Evil’ Star Austin Abrams Breaks Down the “Risky and Gutsy” Ending The Hollywood Reporter
- ‘Resident Evil’ Scores $60M U.S. Opening: Best Ever For Zach Cregger & Franchise – Box Office Update Deadline
- Resident Evil review – Zach Cregger’s rebooted action horror is a wild rollercoaster ride The Guardian
- Resident Evil First Reviews: Not Just the Best Resident Evil Movie, but One of the Best Video Game Movies Ever Rotten Tomatoes
- Zach Cregger’s ‘Resident Evil’ Movie Is Already a Record Breaker Gizmodo
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on The Hollywood Reporter