AceShowbiz - Zach Cregger has directed a new reboot of the Resident Evil movie franchise, which has received very positive initial reactions from audiences and critics alike.

The film introduces a fresh storyline within the Resident Evil universe, following Bryan, a medical courier who encounters the deadly T-virus from the Umbrella Corporation during a tense nighttime drive. The movie stars Austin Abrams alongside Zach Cherry, Kali Reis, and Paul Walter Hauser, and runs a brisk 95 minutes aimed at maintaining high intensity throughout. Produced by Columbia Pictures and Constantin Film with TriStar Pictures, the reboot is scheduled for theatrical release on September 18, 2026.

Zach Cregger has shared that he chose not to strictly follow the video game’s established characters or narrative, instead crafting a story centered on civilians thrust into survival scenarios. He acknowledged that while many fans desire a faithful adaptation, he wanted a creative approach that also appeals to a wider audience. The director described the film as immersing viewers into the experience of inexperienced protagonists navigating chaos and terror, rather than focusing solely on familiar Black Ops figures from the games.

Zach Cregger is widely known for his comedic work on College and Miss March, as well as his roles in Friends with Benefits and the TV series Guys with Kids. With over 20 credits to his name, Cregger’s background in comedy informs his unique take on horror, blending tension with a sharp creative sensibility. This reboot marks a significant step as he continues to expand his directorial portfolio beyond comedy.

This new Resident Evil film matters because it aims to reset the franchise’s cinematic identity with a fresh narrative and tone, responding to long-standing fan expectations while exploring new creative territory. The positive early buzz suggests it could become a standout adaptation in the often-challenging genre of video game movies.