Critics Hail New Resident Evil Film as Best Video Game Adaptation

Early critical reactions to Zach Cregger's new "Resident Evil" film are overwhelmingly positive, with many reviewers calling it one of the best video game adaptations ever made. The film, which had its world premiere in Los Angeles on Tuesday night, is scheduled for a wide theatrical release on September 18, 2026. The movie follows Bryan, a medical courier played by Austin Abrams, who crashes his car on a snowy night while delivering a package to Raccoon City. He soon finds himself fighting for survival against mutated creatures in a scenario that mirrors the gameplay experience of the video game series. Director Zach Cregger and co-writer Shay Hatten created an original story that forgoes established characters from the games and previous films, a decision that has caused some consternation among longtime fans. Critics have praised the film's relentless pace, dark humor, and inventive creature effects. Many highlighted how Cregger uses first-person perspective shots and a weapon progression system, from pistol to shotgun to machine gun, to mimic the feel of playing the games.