Zach Cregger’s Resident Evil Is Called One of the Best Video Game Adaptations and Received High Praise

A new adaptation of Resident Evil, directed by Zach Cregger—known for Barbarian and Weapons—is set to premiere in theaters this week. Unlike several previous films in the franchise, although this one takes place in Raccoon City, it is a standalone story about a courier named Brian who must deliver a highly important package.

As reported by Variety, various media outlets have already started sharing their impressions of Zach Cregger’s Resident Evil on social media—and they seem to be quite positive. The film is being praised for its superbly captured atmosphere, creepy monster designs, charismatic protagonist, and its retention of the franchise’s spirit, despite having little in common with the games. You can check out some of the media reviews below:

EJ Moreno (Tomatometer):

RESIDENT EVIL: one of those films you have to see on the biggest screen with a big crowd! A true horror blockbuster. Zach Cregger goes bigger, scarier, and at his most fun. This is how you make horror into a cinematic spectacle.

Mark Cassidy (Tomatometer):

Resident Evil may not feature recognizable characters/storylines, but by tapping into the relentless tension of the games, Zach Cregger has actually delivered the most faithful take yet. Very bloody, very funny, and it made me jump at least 3 times (no easy task). The fella sitting in front of me hid behind his jacket for most of the movie. Easily among the best video game adaptations I've seen.

Jordan Moreau (Variety):

Zach Cregger is the fucking man and Resident Evil is one of the best video game adaptions ever made, and one of the best horror movies in recent memory. Incredible title drop, Austin Abrams is hilarious to watch stumble around killing zombies, 10/10.

Kellvin Chavez (SplashReport):

HOLY SHIT!!! Resident Evil has its foot on the gas from the opening scene and NEVER hits the brakes. Zach Cregger delivers relentless suspense, gloriously gory action, and some seriously twisted, Thing-esque creature designs.

Pure SURVIVAL HORROR and easily the best Resident Evil movie yet. Austin Abrams is terrific.

Despite concerns from some viewers and fans, the events of the Resident Evil movie take place in 2026 rather than 1998—the year of the Raccoon City incident. Zach Cregger seems to have succeeded in creating a solid project based on the franchise by taking an unconventional approach. Earlier this month, the director also revealed one of the film’s wildest scenes, in which the protagonist, Brian, runs through the city while zombies fall on him from the rooftops.

Zach Cregger's Resident Evil premieres September 18. The film’s cast includes Austin Abrams, Paul Walter Hauser, Kali Reis, Zach Cherry, and Johnno Wilson.