Zach Cregger's movie approach for 'Resident Evil' seems to share similarities with previous adaptations of the popular video game series.
In the world of Resident Evil, a new narrative is on the horizon. Writer/director Zach Cregger has announced his upcoming film, set to be released on September 18, 2026, as a reboot within the Resident Evil game universe [2][3]. The movie, which is not titled "Resident Evil Requiem" as some may have speculated, will present an original story that diverges from the traditional game characters and previously established film plots [1][2].
Cregger has described the film as a "rock ’em, sock ’em" horror movie, drawing inspiration from the energetic and chaotic style of Evil Dead 2 [2]. This new take promises to be a wild, fun ride, with intense camera work and a real-time journey narrative that delves deep into a kind of hellish experience [2]. The tone is expected to differ from Cregger's previous films, such as Barbarian and Weapons, as it will be more action-heavy and horror-focused, designed for straightforward entertainment [1][2].
The film will introduce new characters, notably starring Austin Abrams in a lead role [3]. Milla Jovovich's Alice, a character made specifically for the Resident Evil films, will not be appearing in this new installment [1]. Cregger has emphasized that the movie will be faithful to the lore of the games, serving as a love letter to the series while telling a different story [3].
It's worth noting that the Resident Evil movies have a history of introducing new characters not found in the games [1]. The 2021 film, Welcome to Raccoon City, touted itself as more faithful to the first two Resident Evil games, but it did not resonate with audiences. This new film, however, seems to be carving its own path within the Resident Evil game universe.
Zach Cregger's Resident Evil film will not tell the story of Leon S. Kennedy, a popular character from the games [1]. As the release date approaches, fans can look forward to a new Resident Evil narrative within the game’s established world, focused on fresh characters and storytelling, with an energetic, intense horror style inspired by classic horror like Evil Dead 2, and honoring the game’s lore even as it diverges from familiar characters and plots.
- Gizmodo, in discussing the upcoming Resident Evil movie, highlights the film's unique approach to technology within the movie-making process, employing advanced camera work and real-time narrative for a cinematic experience that mirrors the chaotic gameplay of Resident Evil.
- io9 suggests that the future of Resident Evil movies could be significantly influenced by Zach Cregger's upcoming film, given the movie's original narrative, departure from traditional characters, and horror-focused action, which draws inspiration from classic horror films like Evil Dead 2.
- In the world of entertainment, news sites such as Movies-and-TV are eagerly anticipating the release of the upcoming Resident Evil movie, slated for September 18, 2026, given its potential to bring a fresh perspective to the Resident Evil franchise, introducing new characters and offering an energetic, horror-filled ride.
