“Resident Evil” Director Zach Cregger Reveals How Austin Abrams Faced a Near-Death Experience on Set

**Austin Abrams Stars in Terrifying ‘Resident Evil’ Adaptation Amid Harrowing On-Set Incident**

In an upcoming film that promises both thrilling action and sheer terror, Austin Abrams steps into the role of Bryan, a medical courier caught in the chaos of a zombie apocalypse. Directed by Zach Cregger, known for his work on the horror genre, this latest adaptation of the iconic video game series is set to hit cinemas on September 18, 2025.

Cregger recently shared alarming details about a near-fatal incident that occurred during the filming. He recounted how the movie’s lead actor, Abrams, narrowly escaped a severe injury during a sequence involving dramatic stunts and explosions. “It would’ve killed him. If he had been one step to the right, he would’ve died,” Cregger remarked during an interview, highlighting the precarious nature of the set.

The gripping scene in question sees a multitude of gory figures pursuing Bryan as he desperately seeks refuge. The director aimed to create an authentic experience, steering clear of visual effects to heighten the suspense. “I didn’t want it to look like VFX. So, we needed a way to have real explosions,” Cregger explained. This decision led to an intricate sequence of choreography and staging that involved “body-sized blood bags.” These were dropped from cranes to give viewers an immersive sense of chaos.

While the result may have been visually striking, the risks taken on set were all too tangible. Cregger revealed that one of the blood bags came alarmingly close to striking Abrams—an incident that left the cast and crew in shock. He reflected on the incident by stating, “That shot is in the movie, so it’s worth it. I was pretty stunned.” Such moments encapsulate the high stakes sometimes involved in film production, especially in the horror genre.

The film, which is the seventh adaptation of the hugely popular video game franchise since the first film debuted in 2002, seeks to capture the essence of the gaming experience. Cregger aims to mirror the journey players undertake as they navigate through perilous landscapes filled with relentless foes. He articulated his ambition for the film in a conversation with Polygon, stating that the project resonates with the same fear and urgency players feel behind the controls.

In addition to Abrams, the cast features Zach Cherry, Kali Reis, and Paul Walter Hauser, each contributing to the film’s rich narrative and dynamic character relationships. The ensemble is expected to bring a new dimension to the franchise, which has a long history of cinematic reinterpretation.

As expectations mount in the lead-up to its release, fans of the Resident Evil franchise will undoubtedly be eager to see how Cregger’s vision translates to the big screen. With a promising mix of horror, action, and authentic special effects, the film aims to stand out in an already crowded genre.

As Cregger reflects on the making of the film, he expresses his pride in what the team has accomplished. “There’s a real sense of teamwork and accomplishment. I feel like I grew a lot making it, just as a filmmaker,” he noted. This dedication and passion for the project could play a significant role in the film’s reception.

The “Resident Evil” adaptation arrives at a time when cinematic horror continues to evolve, exploring new themes and storytelling techniques. With its gripping premise, star-studded cast, and the dramatic events that unfolded behind the scenes, the film is poised to captivate audiences when it premieres this September.