[Video Interview] Johannes Roberts’ ‘RESIDENT EVIL: WELCOME TO RACCOON CITY’ Reboots Brutal, Bloody, Brainy Fun

Courtney Howard // Film Critic

Filmmaker Johannes Roberts had a few things in mind when crafting RESIDENT EVIL: WELCOME TO RACCOON CITY, his new cinematic spin on a fan favorite franchise. He wanted to make it not only for the passionate, die-hard fans of the video game series, but those unfamiliar to that world. He was also inspired by a few iconic 70’s films dealing with conspiracy theories and deep-rooted communal trauma.

In this high-octane horror flick, Claire Redfield (Kaya Scodelario) returns to her impoverished, rapidly decaying hometown in hopes to rescue her estranged brother Chris (Robbie Amell) from an impending outbreak of a mysterious virus affecting residents. As she’s forced to fend off various mutants and zombies, she confronts the horrors of her past, taking her through familiar traumatic territory, dredging up horrific memories that helps her kick ass and conquer while healing.

At the fun film’s recent press day, we spoke with the affable writer-director about his vision for rebooting the franchise.

RESIDENT EVIL: WELCOME TO RACCOON CITY opens in theaters on November 24.

Courtney Howard

Courtney Howard is a LAFCA, CCA, OFCS and AWFJ member, as well as a Rotten Tomatometer-approved film critic. Her work has been published on Variety, She Knows and Awards Circuit.

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