Resident Evil director Paul W. S. Anderson says he's got no time for people who do game adaptations without playing them—'That's outrageous'
PC Gamer
by Rich Stanton February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Paul W.S. Anderson, director of *Resident Evil* (2002), *Mortal Kombat* (1995), and *Monster Hunter* (2021), has strongly criticized filmmakers who adapt video games without playing them. During a recent interview on Chris Plante’s podcast, Anderson called such an approach “outrageous,” comparing it to adapting *War and Peace* without reading the book. He emphasized that understanding and respecting the source material is crucial for creating authentic adaptations. Anderson believes that ignoring the game not only disrespects fans but also risks missing out on key elements like aesthetics, gameplay mechanics, and storytelling style.
Anderson shared how he immerses his team in the gaming experience to ensure authenticity. He requires production designers and directors of photography to play the game or watch walkthroughs, ensuring they capture the visual language and atmosphere of the source material. For example, in *Resident Evil*, the overhead shots and doorways from the games were replicated on screen. This attention to detail not only honors the game but also resonates with fans, as seen when a recreated set from *Mortal Kombat* earned enthusiastic cheers during a screening.
While Anderson respects gaming’s immersive experience, he acknowledges that movies must offer a different kind of storytelling—one that is faster-paced and visually dynamic. He noted how *Doom* (2021) attempted to capture the first-person shooter perspective but fell short by losing sight of the game’s core identity. Anderson’s approach balances reverence for the source material with cinematic creativity, setting a high standard for future adaptations in gaming culture.
This matters becauseAnderson’s insights highlight the importance of authenticity in adapting games, a topic that resonates deeply with both gamers and filmmakers. His methods demonstrate how respecting the original work can lead to successful and beloved adaptations, fostering goodwill among fans while showcasing the potential of video game-inspired storytelling in film.
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/25/2026