The Wasteland Reviewer

Resident Evil (2026) Written Review

What should you expect from a Zach Cregger Resident Evil movie? If you are going into this one expecting an actual adaptation of one of the beloved games, you will probably be disappointed. There has never been a good track record for adapting these games as Paul W.S. Anderson only vaguely got elements of the games into this vision. But Cregger is bringing his own brand of darkly funny, horror filmmaking to this brand and delivering a wholly unique story in the realm of Umbrella, Raccoon City, and grotesquely mutating human-beings. 

How does Cregger bring the world of Resident Evil to life in this film? One of the clearest trademarks of the film is a brilliant balance of horror and humor. The film is full of humor (most of which emanates from Austin Abrams in the leading role) with plenty of hilarious moments. Resident Evil is not a property known for humor, but Cregger leaves his unique stamp on it. But the laughs do not get in the way of the horror. There is a steady diet of body horror, jump scares, and foreboding dread that make for a horrific concoction. One of the most impressive elements of the film is the mind-blowing camera work by cinematographer Dariusz Wolski. The camera is a character of its own throughout the film with engrossing long takes, razor sharp blocking, and dynamic tilts and pans. The second you are dropped into this film, you feel like you are trapped in the terror and mayhem of Cregger’s vision. The score is another dynamic and bold element with Hays and Ryan Holladay crafting such a thumping and propulsive auditory experience. One key element that just might get lost in humor and horror is the heart of the film. There are some solid emotional moments too centered on the personal strife of Abrams’ character. But for Resident Evil, creature designs and effects are essential. Let’s just say…these abominations are nightmare fuel.

How does the script by Cregger and Shay Hatton come to life on screen? The atmosphere and experience will certainly stick with you the most, but this is a tight script too. This is a film under 90 minutes, and it is a trim and well-structured story.  There might be a blunt expositional scene in the center of the film that stops things quite drastically but otherwise, each scene feels natural and how the journey of our courier protagonist progresses is quite engrossing. The film is economical in the way it crafts our protagonist as someone running from responsibility and he must prove this is not the truth but completing his mission. Cregger and Hatton find plenty of fun and twists roadblocks along the way that send Abrams’ Bryan awry. The way the film honors the survival elements of the game with minimal ammunition for our protagonist certainly increases the tension. There are a few moments that stand out as they challenge both Bryan and the audience with how unnerving and complex this concept can get with human lives. Outside of the clever and sharp humor that Cregger and Hatton inject throughout the film, the most impactful writing is the character work for Bryan. The ending is powerful and shocking and will certainly leave an impression on the audience. 

How does the cast fit into Cregger’s vision? So much of this film works due to the electric performance of Abrams. There is such unique manic energy that Abrams brings as a performer, and Bryan is full of it. The key to most of the humor in the film is the genuine reactions to the complete mayhem and abominations waiting for him around every corner. Even his shrieking screams make so many moments throughout the film. Abrams are just on the perfect frequency to read and translate Cregger’s vision on screen. Paul Walter Hauser shows up for maybe a 10-minute sequence in this film and delivers some excellent humor as well. Even Zach Cherry gets a bit of a spotlight to shine too. She might not be there for long, but Kali Reis brings an intensity to her capable and badass operative character. 

Have we finally experienced a great Resident Evil film? Cregger did it his way and that was the secret to the Resident Evil adaptation recipe. The filmmaking in this film is dynamic and enthralling to say the least. There are plenty of disturbing and grotesque creatures that will haunt your nightmares. Abrams ties the whole experience together with his wholly entertaining performance. This is some horror/comedy work at its best.