Initial reactions to Zach Cregger's 'Resident Evil' film have been overwhelmingly positive, with many critics lauding it as a significant achievement in the horror genre and a standout among video game adaptations. The movie is celebrated for its intense atmosphere, graphic action sequences, and unexpected humor, despite taking a new narrative direction that diverges from established game characters.
"Resident Evil" Reboot Garners Enthusiastic Praise Ahead of Release
On September 15, 2026, initial reviews for Zach Cregger's new horror film, "Resident Evil," emerged, highlighting its cinematic impact. Critics, including EJ Moreno, a Tomatometer reviewer, expressed high praise, encouraging audiences to experience the film on the largest screens available, emphasizing its scale as a genuine horror blockbuster. Moreno remarked, "Zach Cregger ventures into grander, more terrifying territory, delivering an immensely enjoyable experience. This exemplifies how to craft a cinematic horror spectacle."
Mark Cassidy, another Tomatometer critic, noted that the film effectively captures "the incessant suspense inherent in the games," proclaiming it "the most authentic interpretation yet." He highlighted its visceral and comedic elements, admitting to being startled multiple times. Kellvin Chavez, SplashReport.com’s editor-in-chief, offered a similarly enthusiastic review, stating that "Resident Evil" maintains high intensity from its inception without faltering. Chavez commended Cregger for his ability to weave together continuous suspense, graphic action, and imaginative creature designs, declaring it a pure survival horror experience and the finest "Resident Evil" movie so far. He specifically praised Austin Abrams' performance.
Film critic Tristian Circa '89 echoed these sentiments, finding the film as intense and frightening as expected, while appreciating its well-integrated comedic moments. Jordan Moreau of Variety hailed Cregger as exceptional and the new "Resident Evil" as not only one of the best video game adaptations but also a top-tier horror film in recent memory, giving it a perfect score. Abrams portrays a medical courier thrust into a zombie apocalypse while attempting to make a delivery to Raccoon City General Hospital. Cregger collaborated with Shay Hatten on the screenplay, and the cast features Zach Cherry, Kali Reis, and Paul Walter Hauser.
Cregger's decision to craft an original story for this installment, rather than featuring beloved characters like Leon S. Kennedy or Jill Valentine, sparked some debate among fans. He has acknowledged his initial naivete in thinking he could introduce an original narrative into an existing franchise without fan backlash. This new film follows a lineage of six preceding "Resident Evil" movies, beginning with the 2002 release starring Milla Jovovich and Michelle Rodriguez. The franchise has achieved substantial commercial success, accumulating over $1.2 billion globally. Sony Pictures is set to release "Resident Evil" in theaters on September 18.
This latest "Resident Evil" installment demonstrates that a fresh vision, even within a well-established franchise, can invigorate and redefine audience expectations. Cregger's ability to balance homage to the source material's tension with novel storytelling elements offers a compelling blueprint for future adaptations. The enthusiastic early reception suggests that creative risk-taking can lead to both critical acclaim and a revitalized fan experience.
