Sony’s Resident Evil, directed by Zach Cregger, premiered at The United Theater in Los Angeles on Tuesday evening, followed by press screenings. Full critical reviews remain under embargo until 9 a.m. PT on Sept. 16, but the studio permitted attendees to share initial impressions on social media. The film will screen at 2026 Fantastic Fest on Sept. 17 before arriving in theaters worldwide on Sept. 18.
The movie represents the latest adaptation of the video game franchise. It follows the 2021 reboot Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City, which underperformed commercially and critically. The original Milla Jovovich-led film series launched in 2002 and produced six sequels over 14 years. A Netflix television adaptation based on the property was canceled after one season in 2022.
Cregger’s version centers on a medical courier played by Austin Abrams who becomes trapped in an outbreak in Raccoon City that transforms people into monsters. The supporting cast includes Zach Cherry, Kali Reis, and Paul Walter Hauser. Cregger previously directed the horror films Weapons and Barbarian. Prior to the premiere, he discussed making adjustments following test screenings, including the removal of several comedic moments.
Early reactions from premiere attendees characterized the film as a success. Reviewers highlighted its balance of horror and humor, technical execution, and Abrams’ performance. Many noted the film’s pacing, visual intensity, and ability to evoke the experience of playing the source material. Several compared it favorably to previous video game adaptations and cited its unpredictability and gore-heavy approach as standout elements.
Article Attribution | Read More at Article Source
Article summary produced by Claude AI