Resident Evil Documentary: Uncovering the Untold Story of Horror’s Greatest ‘What Could Have Been’
by Justine Norton-Kertson
Horror fans, mark your calendars. On January 7, 2025, the long-awaited investigative documentary George A. Romero’s Resident Evil will finally see the light of day, offering a detailed exploration of one of Hollywood’s most fascinating unrealized projects. Bloody Disgusting broke the exclusive story this week, revealing that Uncork’d Entertainment has acquired U.S. and Canadian distribution rights to the highly anticipated film.
Directed by Brandon Salisbury, George A. Romero’s Resident Evil dives into the intriguing tale of how the legendary director George A. Romero—the man who redefined zombies and modern horror—was tapped to adapt the iconic Resident Evil video game for the big screen. However, despite what seemed like a dream collaboration, Romero’s vision for the survival horror classic never materialized.
Salisbury’s documentary promises to unravel the mystery, weaving together archival footage, newly unearthed documents, and interviews with key figures from the era. Drawing inspiration from acclaimed films like Jodorowsky’s Dune, Salisbury crafts a gripping narrative about creativity, ambition, and the harsh realities of Hollywood.
“George Romero gave birth to modern horror, the modern zombie, and ultimately Resident Evil,” Salisbury explains. “I am honored to bring fans the untold story of his most important unmade project, to celebrate the legacy of the man that inspired me to pursue filmmaking as a career. I hope fans enjoy this ultimate experience in survival horror.”
The documentary will feature never-before-seen insights into Romero’s creative process, his partnership with Constantin Film, and the ambitious script that could have redefined the Resident Evil franchise. Salisbury revisits the personalities and passions that drove the project, presenting an immersive experience for fans of Romero, Resident Evil, and cinematic storytelling alike.
Keith Leopard, President of Uncork’d Entertainment, expressed his excitement about the film, stating, “Uncork’d is honored to bring George A. Romero’s Resident Evil to fans who have long awaited the untold story behind this legendary, unmade project. This documentary pays homage to Romero’s incredible vision and the power of storytelling that transcends what could have been. We’re excited for audiences to finally experience the mystery and legacy of his work in a whole new way.”
A Legacy Left Unfinished
In 1998, Constantin Film began its efforts to adapt Resident Evil, a franchise that had already cemented itself as a cornerstone of survival horror. Romero, fresh off directing a series of live-action Resident Evil 2 commercials for Capcom, seemed the perfect choice to helm the adaptation. Despite his unparalleled horror pedigree, creative differences ultimately sidelined his script and vision, leaving fans to wonder what could have been.
Salisbury’s documentary not only explores the behind-the-scenes drama but also positions Romero’s unproduced work as a pivotal moment in both gaming and film history. For fans of horror and film, this documentary offers a chance to revisit Romero’s genius and his profound impact on the genre.
When and Where to Watch
George A. Romero’s Resident Evil will be available on Digital and On Demand starting January 7, 2025. Whether you’re a die-hard Romero fan, a Resident Evil enthusiast, or simply a lover of behind-the-scenes Hollywood stories, this documentary is not to be missed.
