Zach Cregger on Original Resident Evil Film and Fan Backlash

Zach Cregger, the director known for the horror films Barbarian and Weapons, has acknowledged that his upcoming Resident Evil adaptation may draw criticism from fans for diverging from the video game franchise's established lore. In an interview with The New York Times, Cregger expressed caution about adapting beloved games, stating he "warily crosses his arms" upon hearing of such projects. The film, set for theatrical release on September 18, 2026, introduces an original story within the Resident Evil universe, focusing on new characters rather than iconic figures from the games.

The movie centers on Brian, a laid-back medical courier played by Austin Abrams, who becomes stranded in an isolated Raccoon City hospital during the 1998 T-virus outbreak. As bioengineered monstrosities overrun the city, Brian must navigate the chaos to survive. Supporting roles are filled by Paul Walter Hauser as Carl, Johnno Wilson as Max, Zach Cherry, and Kali Reis, whose characters remain undisclosed. Cregger co-wrote the screenplay with Shay Hatten, with production overseen by Robert Kulzer, Roy Lee, Miri Yoon, Asad Qizilbash, and Carter Swan.

Cregger, a self-described fan of the Resident Evil...