The first reviews for the new *Resident Evil* adaptation directed by Zach Cregger have appeared online. Critics have received the film warmly; it has topped the rankings for video game adaptations on both major aggregator sites.
Ratings
| Movie | Metacritic | Rotten Tomatoes |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Evil (2026) | 79 | 97% |
| The Exit 8 | 71 | 91% |
| Werewolves Within | 66 | 86% |
What’s being praised
- Atmosphere. Cregger managed to capture the spirit of the original games without copying them shot-for-shot; the film feels "like it could have been an *RE* game itself" (Seattle Times).
- Tone. A horror movie that is both smart and funny; a frightening opening gradually gives way to absurdity, and this tonal shift works (TheWrap).
- Austin Abrams. Critics consider him the film's greatest asset. *Empire*: "In him, Cregger found his own clumsy, chaotic De Niro."
- Originality. The film doesn't cling to nostalgia or attempt a 1:1 adaptation.
Mixed-to-positive reviews
Variety called the film a "cute and uncomplicated escape"—"quirkily grounded... for a *Resident Evil* movie."
Context
- Premiere: September 18, 2026.
- Plot: Brian, a courier transporting donor organs, finds himself at the epicenter of a viral outbreak among mutants.
- Early audience reactions have already surfaced, largely aligning with critical assessments.
A Metacritic score of 79 isn't an all-time record for horror films, but for a video game adaptation, it is an outstanding result. Paul W.S. Anderson’s previous *Resident Evil* films hovered in the 30–50 point range. Kregger has seemingly achieved what no director before him could: proving that a video game can be adapted into not just a "decent" film, but a genuinely good one.
