Resident Evil: new film and mixed reactions to trailer

The Resident Evil franchise is getting another live-action film, this time directed by Zach Cregger. Scheduled for release in September 2026, the movie follows a medical courier named Bryan, played by Austin Abrams. Rather than adapting a specific game plot, the film tells an original story set in the Resident Evil universe.

Director and cast

Zach Cregger, known for his earlier horror projects, is leading this new film. Austin Abrams, who previously made an impression in "Gangster Squad", takes the lead as Bryan. Cregger has said the movie will not strictly follow the games’ storylines, but instead draw on the themes and atmosphere that make the franchise so recognizable.

Trailer reactions

In April 2026, the first teaser trailer for the film was released, leading to a mixed response from fans. Cregger has taken in a lot of feedback on the trailer, much of it divided. Many viewers said they would have preferred a more direct adaptation of the games. That has sparked a bigger debate about the creative choices behind the film.

Cregger acknowledges that some fans are hoping for a more faithful version of the beloved video games, and he has expanded on his vision accordingly. Making a film that meets the expectations of an audience with strong ideas about what Resident Evil should be, while still allowing room for creative freedom, is a challenge.

Creative choices

Zach Cregger has made it clear that he does not find a straightforward narrative approach creatively satisfying. He believes that a film that does not blindly focus on Capcom’s original stories may be less likely to deliver the results both new and longtime fans expect. Instead, he aims to introduce new characters that still fit within the established Resident Evil world.

Cregger’s vision for the Resident Evil film also reflects a broader trend in adapting video games for other media. Finding the right balance between staying true to the source and allowing creative freedom is a common challenge for filmmakers. As the release date approaches, it remains to be seen how the mix of new elements and familiar Resident Evil atmosphere will resonate with audiences.

Cregger is confident that audiences will recognize the franchise’s thematic core, even if the story itself is original. As the first installment of what could become a longer new film series, fans of both the games and the movies can look forward to an exciting addition to the Resident Evil saga.