ENTERTAINMENT

‘Resident Evil’ is funny, frightening, and one of the year’s best horror movies

PUBLISHED Sep 17, 2026, 10:11 AM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 34

Left 26%

Center 74%

Sources: 34

Director Zach Cregger has adapted the Resident Evil franchise into a survival-horror film focusing on an ordinary medical courier named Bryan, portrayed by Austin Abrams. Set during a late-night delivery to Raccoon City General Hospital, the narrative follows Bryan as he encounters the Umbrella Corporation outbreak. Critics praise the production for blending intense survival terror with dark, organic humor derived from panicked reactions. Eschewing heavy game lore and traditional franchise heroes, the 95-minute feature utilizes third-person framing and escalating weapon progression to mimic interactive gaming experiences. Reviewers highlight the project as a major frontrunner for video game cinematic adaptations, delivering a bloody, fast-paced genre entry. Publication status stands as ready for publication following positive critical consensus across major entertainment reviewing outlets covering the initial screening circuit.

By Noormahi M. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On October 15 2024, production announcements detailed Zach Cregger signing on to direct.
On January 10 2025, casting reports confirmed Austin Abrams as the lead courier.
On March 22 2025, principal photography commenced on studio sets in Los Angeles.
On August 14 2025, initial teaser trailer footage debuted at major summer conventions.
On November 5 2025, post-production wrapped with final sound mixing and editing.
On February 18 2026, industry press screenings generated early positive critical reviews.
On March 1 2026 (14:00 EST), studio executives officially confirmed the theatrical distribution window.
On March 10 2026 (09:00 EST), critics published glowing reviews praising the video game framing.
On March 15 2026 (18:30 EST), box office analysts projected strong opening weekend ticket sales.
On March 17 2026 (11:15 EST), final ticket pre-sales exceeded studio expectations across North America.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Domestic horror film audiences will experience heightened theatrical entertainment options soon.
Possible long-term US impact: Video game film adaptations may prioritize original relatable protagonists over established canon.
Most affected groups: Horror film fans, entertainment investors, and cinematic box office analysts are affected.
Reader priority: Readers should prioritize original studio announcements and established trade publication reviews.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 34
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 9
Neutral:: 25

Explain Framing

Left: Framing emphasizes artistic direction, modern storytelling choices, and subversion of tropes. Center: Framing reports box office prospects, critical reception, and production metrics objectively. Right: Framing focuses on consumer entertainment value, franchise legacy, and commercial success.