Paul W.S. Anderson Set to Direct New House of the Dead Movie for Sega Fans
Paul W.S. Anderson, known for directing the Resident Evil movie series, has been tapped to helm a new film adaptation of Sega’s iconic House of the Dead arcade game. Teaming up with Jeremy Bolt and an experienced production team, the movie aims to reimagine the intense on-rails zombie shooter as an “extreme haunted house” experience for the big screen.
Overview of the Project
Paul W.S. Anderson, best known for his work on the Resident Evil films and the cult-favorite Mortal Kombat (1995), will direct an adaptation of The House of the Dead, Sega's classic arcade zombie shooter. Partnering with executive producer Jeremy Bolt and additional production backing from Story Kitchen’s Dmitri M. Johnson and others, Anderson’s vision for the movie will embrace the original game's high-action horror elements with what he calls an “extreme haunted house” narrative.
A Unique Approach to Zombies
Unlike traditional zombie films that draw on George Romero’s undead archetypes, House of the Dead introduces unique, fast-moving “creatures” rather than conventional zombies. According to Bolt, the creatures will resemble mutated beings, some with grotesque features like chainsaw-enhanced limbs, which provide an alternative spin on the usual horror antagonists.
Anderson’s Plan for Accessibility
Anderson aims to create a movie that welcomes both long-time fans and new viewers. Rather than focusing heavily on backstory, the movie will throw audiences straight into the horror experience, allowing viewers to learn about the characters and plot as they navigate through the film’s high-stakes, survival-driven storyline.
Production Timeline and Anticipation
Production on House of the Dead is expected to begin around mid-to-late 2025. With Anderson’s track record of adapting beloved gaming franchises, fans are hopeful this movie will capture the fast-paced, gruesome action of the original game while appealing to a broader audience.
