Summary (tl;dr)

The latest reboot of the Resident Evil film series, starring Austin Abrams, is trending as it begins its international theatrical release, with early reviews praising its blend of horror and humor.

Essential Background

The Resident Evil franchise, based on Capcom's popular video game series, has a long history of film adaptations, including six films starring Milla Jovovich and a 2021 reboot titled Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City. These previous attempts have often struggled to capture the essence of the games, leading to mixed fan and critical reception. The new film, simply titled Resident Evil, marks the second reboot of the live-action film series.

The Full Story

The new Resident Evil movie, directed and co-written by Zach Cregger, is generating significant buzz as it rolls out globally. It premiered in France, Mexico, and the Philippines on September 16, 2026, and is set for a wider theatrical release in the United States on September 18, 2026. The film stars Austin Abrams as Bryan, a medical courier who finds himself embroiled in a viral outbreak in the fictional Raccoon City while attempting to deliver a crucial package.

Filming for the movie took place in Prague, beginning in October 2025. Critics are giving the film positive early reviews, highlighting Abrams' "charming" and "strong central performance" as a "hapless de facto hero," and commending Cregger's direction for successfully blending intense survival horror with comedic elements. Many reviews suggest that the film adeptly captures the spirit of the video game franchise, offering a thrilling and fun experience.

Why It Matters

This latest Resident Evil adaptation is significant because it appears to be a critical success in a franchise often plagued by lukewarm film reviews, potentially revitalizing the cinematic future of the beloved video game series. The positive reception for director Zach Cregger further solidifies his standing as a prominent horror filmmaker, while Austin Abrams' lauded performance could mark a notable moment in his career, showcasing his ability to lead a major genre film. The movie's focus on an original story set within the Resident Evil universe, rather than a direct game adaptation, also signals a fresh approach that might influence future video game-to-film projects.

Geographic Location

• Prague, Czech Republic (filming of the movie)
• France (early theatrical release of the movie)
• Mexico (early theatrical release of the movie)
• Philippines (early theatrical release of the movie)
• United States (scheduled theatrical release of the movie)