While other horror franchises can be accused of rehashing themselves with each new entry, every part of the Rec series feels like a different movie. The original sets things into motion with staggering execution and results, and the follow-up expands on the lore. After the events of Rec 2, it made sense for Jaume Balagueró and Paco Plaza to explore the world they had created. So the duo split up for the remaining two movies in the zombie series, with Plaza taking on the third installment. While it would seem like Balagueró got the better end of the deal — his sequel Rec 4: Apocalypse ties directly into Ángela Vidal’s story — Plaza was handed a golden opportunity to do something outside the main plot.

When asked about the new changes of Rec 3: Genesis, Plaza said he and Balagueró “wanted to get some fresh air.” However, their decision didn’t sit well with everyone.