Resident Evil reboot directed by Zach Cregger set for 2026 release

Director Zach Cregger is set to helm a new film adaptation of the Resident Evil video game franchise, scheduled for theatrical release in mid-September 2026. The production, backed by Sony Pictures, aims to capture the specific atmosphere and tension of the original survival horror games, which Cregger claims previous cinematic attempts failed to replicate.

The film features an original narrative set within the franchise's universe, specifically during the events in Raccoon City. The plot follows Bryan, a medical courier played by Austin Abrams, who becomes trapped in a biological outbreak while attempting to deliver an urgent shipment. The cast also includes Zach Cherry, Kali Reis, and Paul Walter Hauser.

While the film introduces new characters rather than directly adapting classic protagonists like Leon S. Kennedy, Cregger noted that he drew stylistic inspiration from Resident Evil 4 and Resident Evil 7 to balance intense action with horror. The release is expected to roll out globally, with specific dates noted for markets including Mexico, Brazil, Germany, and Spain.