Zach Cregger's new Resident Evil film, released in 2026, has been praised for finally capturing the intense, survival-horror atmosphere of the original 1996 video game. The movie follows Bryan (Austin Abrams), a medical courier who takes on a high-priority delivery to Raccoon City, a decision that plunges him into a nightmarish race for survival.
Unlike previous iterations of the film franchise, which have often featured action heroes, this Resident Evil centers on Bryan, a protagonist described as perhaps the least heroic to lead an installment. He lacks special forces training and is as unprepared for the unfolding horror as the average player, fumbling with weapons and frequently experiencing panic. This relatable vulnerability is seen as a key factor in the film's success, allowing audiences to empathize with Bryan's terrifying ordeal.
The film maintains a relentless pace throughout its 95-minute runtime, eschewing quiet moments for continuous disaster. Bryan's journey is a constant cycle of escaping one peril only to be thrust into another, creating a marathon-like experience akin to films such as Mad Max: Fury Road and Run Lola Run. While the movie includes jump scares and gore, its primary focus is on building tension rather than outright horror.
Cregger, who previously directed Barbarian and Weapons, brought his background in sketch comedy to the project, resulting in a surprisingly humorous film. Jokes are integrated in a way that complements, rather than detracts from, the tension. The humor often arises from the anticipation of impending danger, adding a unique layer to the experience.
Fans of the Resident Evil games will find numerous references, though the film avoids direct cameos from established characters like Leon Kennedy or STARS members. Instead, the monsters and overall aesthetic are crafted to feel authentic to the game's lineage. While traditional zombies appear, the film emphasizes original creations inspired by the T-Virus, featuring grotesque amalgamations of limbs, tentacles, and teeth. By stepping away from direct game plotlines, Cregger allows the audience to experience the terror of Resident Evil through Bryan's eyes, focusing on the raw fear of an ordinary person caught in extraordinary circumstances.