From the director of the breakout horror hit Barbarian comes a new take on a beloved video game franchise. Zach Cregger is set to helm a new Resident Evil movie, and fans are buzzing with a mix of anticipation and apprehension. After a series of films that deviated heavily from the source material, Cregger’s involvement signals a fresh, horror-focused direction that could finally deliver the on-screen adaptation fans have been craving. But what do we actually know about the film? From its unique plot to a surprising release date, we’re breaking down all the details.
What is the plot of the new ‘Resident Evil’ movie? Unlike previous adaptations, Cregger’s film will not be a direct retelling of any specific game storyline. Instead, it will feature an original story set within the established Resident Evil universe. According to Hollywood insiders, the plot centers on a new character named Bryan, an organ messenger who finds himself thrust into the nightmare of Raccoon City General Hospital. After hitting a mysterious woman with his car, Bryan is attacked by a tentacle-like mutation. Cregger has stated that while the story will be new, it is a “love letter to the games” and will adhere to the lore, focusing on horror and suspense rather than a generic action-movie feel. This approach is reminiscent of the critically acclaimed Fallout TV series, which told an original story within the game’s world and was widely praised by fans. It seems Cregger is aiming to capture the feeling of playing a Resident Evil game without simply recreating its most famous moments.
When is the ‘Resident Evil’ movie release date? Mark your calendars, because the wait is going to be a while. The new Resident Evil film, which is being produced and co-financed by Constantin Film and Vertigo Entertainment, is officially set for a theatrical release on September 18, 2026. Sony has acquired the distribution rights for the film. This puts it squarely in the middle of spooky season next year and gives Cregger plenty of time to fine-tune his vision. Fans of the director will also be excited to know that this isn’t his only upcoming project; his next horror film, Weapons, is set to debut much sooner, in early 2026. This timeline allows him to focus on each project individually and hopefully deliver two high-quality horror experiences.
Who is Zack Cregger and why is he a good fit? Zack Cregger’s name might not have been on every horror fan’s radar until his 2022 directorial debut, Barbarian. The film, which he also wrote, became a surprise smash hit, praised for its masterful blend of tension, dark humor, and unpredictable twists. Before his success as a horror filmmaker, Cregger was known for his work in comedy, particularly as a founding member of the sketch troupe “The Whitest Kids U’ Know” and for his roles in sitcoms like Wrecked. This unique background is what makes him such an intriguing choice for Resident Evil. His ability to subvert expectations and create genuine, gut-wrenching horror from seemingly normal situations is exactly what a franchise in need of a fresh perspective requires. Cregger’s approach of focusing on the “experience” of playing the game, rather than a rote adaptation, suggests he understands the core of what makes the games so terrifying. His success with Barbarian has given him a strong reputation for crafting compelling, original horror, which is a promising sign for the future of the Resident Evil film series.
What is the online reaction to the new film? The online community has been, predictably, divided. On one hand, many fans are thrilled by Cregger’s involvement. His work on Barbarian has earned him significant trust within the horror community, and the prospect of a horror-first Resident Evil movie is an exciting one. On the other hand, some long-time fans are wary of another adaptation that doesn’t directly follow the games’ main characters like Jill Valentine or Leon S. Kennedy. Cregger has been open about this, candidly stating that he knows “people are going to come for me online.” However, he maintains that his goal is to make a “really good movie” that is a “love letter” to the games. The success of other video game adaptations like Fallout, which embraced an original story within the established world, could be a blueprint for Cregger’s film. Only time will tell if his vision will be embraced by both critics and the notoriously hard-to-please fanbase.
Are you excited for Zack Cregger’s take on Resident Evil? What elements of the games do you hope he includes? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this post with fellow fans!
