Director Zach Cregger has indicated that fans hoping for a "Cregger cut" of the new Resident Evil film will likely be disappointed, as he stands by the current theatrical version. The movie has surprised some viewers with its comedic elements, a departure from what some might expect from a horror adaptation.
Cregger elaborated on the film's tone in a recent interview, stating that while moments of levity are present, the priority remains on it being a horror movie first and foremost. He explained that the jokes removed during the editing process were necessary for the film's overall balance, even though some online have called for their reinstatement in an extended cut.
"The Cregger cut is this without those jokes in it," Cregger told IGN. "It's funny; I saw somebody online was like, 'Release the Cregger cut!' I'm like, 'No, this is the Cregger cut.'" He further added that he feels "good about" the decision to trim those comedic moments, believing it was the right choice for the final product.
Despite discussions surrounding video game references prior to the film's release, the current conversation has largely focused on its surprising use of humor. While some audiences have appreciated the light-hearted tone, others have expressed a desire for fewer jokes. This has led to debate about the film's genre, with some labeling it a horror-comedy.
Reviews have noted the film's comedic beats, with one observer stating, "A LOT of the humor comes from the main characters' reactions to stuff and these aren’t the reactions typical to a video game character but instead the kind of reactions we the players have while playing." Another review from Collider's Perri Nemiroff praised the movie as "one of the best video game adaptations I’ve ever seen, and also one of the best horror comedies I’ve ever seen," highlighting that the humor does not diminish the film's tension or horror elements.
Cregger acknowledged the quality of the cut jokes, saying, "They're great. I just… it's better for the movie." He emphasized his background in comedy and his instinct to celebrate good jokes, but ultimately stressed the need to consider the film as a whole.
The new Resident Evil, which premiered on September 18, 2026, offers an original story inspired by Capcom's survival horror franchise. IGN's review awarded the film an 8/10, describing it as "a simple and exciting survival horror story that benefits greatly from director Zach Cregger’s sensibilities."