150 Pound Blood Bag Almost Kills Movie Star on Set

The magic of blockbuster filmmaking often comes with a dose of adrenaline, especially when creating sequences that push the boundaries of reality. In the making of the upcoming Resident Evil movie, director Zach Cregger found himself navigating the fine line between cinematic spectacle and real-life danger.

During a recent appearance at San Diego Comic-Con, Cregger shared a remarkable story about one of the film’s stars, Austin Abrams. The anecdote involves a scene that audiences are eagerly anticipating, a sequence that required practical effects rather than purely digital artistry. This specific moment involved Abrams’ character, Bryan, sprinting through a dangerous street while zombies leaped from the tops of buildings.

Cregger explained that he wanted to capture this chaotic chase with visceral reality. To achieve this effect, the production team engineered a daring stunt. They created 150-pound “body-sized blood bags” that were dropped from cranes to simulate the onslaught of zombies. The danger was real: one of these effects came perilously close to striking Abrams.

Cregger recounted the intense moment, noting that if Abrams had been just a single step to the right, he would have suffered a fatal blow. This practical approach, born from a desire for authenticity, paid off handsomely, as the shot became a celebrated highlight of the final movie.

“That’s what’s so great about making movies,” Cregger remarked. “You have this amazing idea in your head, and then you have all these people helping you realize that idea and immortalize it on the screen. There is a real sense of teamwork and accomplishment.”

This experience underscored Cregger’s belief in bringing ambitious visions to life, fostering a sense of shared achievement among the crew. He expressed immense pride in the film, feeling he grew significantly as both a director and a filmmaker.

The thematic depth of the story also resonated with the production. Cregger likened the narrative to epic journeys, stating that Bryan is an “everyman” burdened by a sacred mission akin to Frodo entering Mordor in The Lord of the Rings.

Fans can look forward to this blend of high-stakes action and powerful storytelling. The thrilling new Resident Evil movie is set to hit theaters on September 18, promising an experience where practical effects meet cinematic mastery.