Zach Cregger Resident Evil Movie poster

Zach Cregger’s Resident Evil Movie: Everything We Know So Far

If you are a horror fan or an old follower of the Resident Evil movie franchise, then there is great news for you – director Zach Cregger is coming with his new Resident Evil reboot. This film will not be just another remake, but a fresh, edgy, and weird take that promises to bring back the complete survival horror feel.

Cregger has now confirmed that the script of the Resident Evil movie is complete, the storyboard is also ready, and filming is going to start soon. The most interesting thing? This film will be a completely original story set in the Resident Evil universe, but will not include characters from any of the games.

Not Another Game Adaptation

Zach Cregger‘s vision is simple – to make a Resident Evil movie that captures the essence of the games, but does not retell their exact story. He says:

“I’m not going to tell Leon’s story, because Leon’s story is told in the games. [Fans] already have that.

” Meaning Leon Kennedy, Jill Valentine, Chris Redfield – all these popular characters will not be in this reboot. Instead, we will get new characters who will begin their journey in this horror-filled universe. This approach seems quite fresh, because to date, most of the Resident Evil films were either game adaptations or mixed original and game elements.

Fresh Story, Same Dread

Cregger’s goal is to give viewers the same survival horror experience he experienced while playing the games – limited ammo, dark hallways, slow-building tension, and a feeling of danger at every turn.

He said he did not want to be influenced by previous Resident Evil movies, so he deliberately avoided them. This means that the reboot will be the result of his own creative thinking, without the template of any previous movie.

Resident Evil game poster

Faithful to the Lore, Not the Plot

According to Cregger, one of the main strengths of the Resident Evil movie will be its lore fidelity – meaning maintaining the game’s world-building, tone, and horror atmosphere, but making the plot completely new.

This is a bold step, as old fans who appreciate the game’s lore will find that familiar feel in this film, but at the same time will see a story that has never happened before.

Resident Evil Movie Cast & Characters

The cast has not been officially announced, but according to reports, Austin Abrams will play the lead role as a brand-new character. Along with him, Mikey Madison is also being considered for a possible female lead.

Both these actors are known for their intense performances, which would be quite useful in a horror thriller like the Resident Evil reboot.

Resident Evil Movie Filming & Release Date

Filming is planned to begin by the end of 2025, most likely in the Czech Republic. The choice of location is interesting because the European settings seem like a perfect fit for the Resident Evil universe – old architecture, narrow streets, and a perfect backdrop for atmospheric horror.

The release date targeted is September 18, 2026 – meaning fans will have to wait for almost a year after filming wraps up.

Why This Reboot Could Work

Past Resident Evil movies have had a mixed reception – some fans liked Jovovich’s action-heavy approach, while others criticized that the horror essence of those games was missing.

Cregger’s reboot looks quite different because:

1. Original Characters – Fans will get new faces and fresh dynamics.

2. Game-Accurate Tone – Focus on survival horror, tension, and atmosphere.

3. Independent Story – Even those viewers who don’t play the games will enjoy it.

Austin Abrams in Resident Evil Movie
Austin Abrams will play the lead role as a brand-new character

Fan Reactions So Far

The online community is divided – some people are excited that there will finally be a Resident Evil movie that prioritizes atmosphere and dread. On the other hand, some hardcore fans say that without Leon, Jill, or Chris, the feel of Resident Evil would not be complete.

One Reddit user wrote:

“One of the reasons I enjoyed the original Milla Jovovich Resident Evil film was that it had all original characters in a different mansion.”

Another fan said:

“I’m fine with a different story, but if you’re going to put iconic characters on screen, they need to be immediately recognizable…”

Resident Evil Movie Reboot vs. Past Adaptations

If we compare to:

  • Paul W.S. Anderson Films – More action-oriented, original lead (Alice), game characters, side roles for me.
  • Welcome to Raccoon City (2021) – Game characters and stories were mixed, but the execution brought mixed reviews.
  • Zach Cregger Reboot (Upcoming) – No game characters, pure original story, focus on horror & dread.

So it’s clear that Cregger’s approach is the most experimental in the live-action Resident Evil films to date.

What to Expect from the Story

Plot details are still secret, but speculation is that the story will be set in an isolated location – perhaps a mansion, lab facility, or a small European town. The source of the infection outbreak will be unknown, and the new characters will have to struggle for survival on their own.

Since this Resident Evil movie is lore faithful, we will definitely see some involvement of the Umbrella Corporation, whether directly or through hints in the background.

Why Fans Should Keep an Eye on This

  • Zach Cregger’s Horror Background – His first horror film, Barbarian, was loved by both critics and audiences for its unpredictability.
  • Fresh Perspective – Without the baggage of previous films, this reboot can create its own identity.
  • Survival Horror Revival – A chance for a faithful yet new cinematic experience for gaming fans.

Final Thoughts

This reboot of the Resident Evil movie is a gamble – by avoiding old characters and familiar plotlines, Cregger is trying to tell a story that will give fans a new thrill. If his vision is executed correctly, this film could become not only the franchise’s best live-action installment but also a modern horror classic.

Now it remains to be seen whether this Resident Evil reboot delivers on its promise when the film hits theaters on September 18, 2026.

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