‘Can't stand it’: When Call of Duty movie director Peter Berg said he didn’t like video games depicting war

Call of Duty film adaptation director Peter Berg is facing renewed scrutiny after his earlier comments about war-based video games resurfaced online. In a 2013 interview with Esquire, which was recently highlighted by users on ResetEra, Berg criticised video games that depict warfare and called long gaming sessions “pathetic.” The remarks are drawing attention now because Berg is currently directing a film based on Call of Duty, one of the most recognisable military shooter franchises. While the comments were made over a decade ago, they have sparked fresh debate among fans online.During the 2013 Esquire interview, Berg was asked about his views on video games centred around war. He said, “Pathetic. Pathetic. Keyboard courage. Can't stand it. The only people that I give a Call of Duty get-out-of-jail-free card to is the military. They're out there serving and they're bored and they want to entertain themselves? Okay, maybe. Kids? Uh-uh.”When Esquire reminded him that even military personnel play video games, Berg continued defending his stance. He added, “Some of them do. But I tell them I think it's pathetic. I think anyone that sits around playing video games for four hours... It's weak. Get out, do something.”The interview gained fresh attention after users on ResetEra shared the old quotes online. Some users noted that the comments were made more than ten years ago and suggested Berg’s opinions may have changed since then. Others pointed to the contrast between his earlier criticism of gaming culture and his current role working on a Call of Duty adaptation. Neither Berg nor the film’s producers have publicly addressed the resurfaced interview so far.The live-action Call of Duty film adaptation is scheduled to release in cinemas in 2028 and will be directed by Peter Berg, with a script written by Taylor Sheridan.In a joint statement, Activision and Paramount Pictures said the film is being created to “designed to thrill its massive global fan base by delivering on the hallmarks of what fans love about the iconic series.” The companies added, “Both companies are committed to honouring the brand’s rich narrative and distinctive style, promising an authentic and exciting experience for longtime fans and newcomers alike.”David Ellison also said he has spent “countless hours” playing Call of Duty titles. “We’re approaching this film with the same disciplined, uncompromising commitment to excellence that guided our work on Top Gun: Maverick, ensuring it meets the exceptionally high standards this franchise and its fans deserve,” he added.Berg has previously worked on promotional content for the franchise. In 2016, he directed the live-action “Screw It” trailer for Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare, which featured Michael Phelps and Danny McBride. He returned the following year to direct another live-action trailer for Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, starring Taylor Kitsch and Emily Ratajkowski.