Zach Cregger’s ‘Resident Evil’ Film to Run Parallel to Events of ‘Resident Evil 2’

Zach Cregger’s upcoming Resident Evil film, starring Austin Abrams, will unfold alongside the events of Resident Evil 2, offering a new perspective within the established universe of the iconic video game franchise. The film, set to release in theaters on September 18, 2026, aims to capture the atmosphere and pacing of the games while telling an original story.

A New Story in a Familiar World

Cregger, known for directing Weapons and Barbarian, explained his approach to the adaptation. He wanted to create a narrative that exists “in the world of Resident Evil and kind of be on the periphery of the events of Resident Evil 2,” according to an interview with IGN. The film focuses on Bryan, a medical courier played by Austin Abrams, as he navigates a Raccoon City overrun by monstrous creatures.

Rather than retell a pre-existing story or recast established characters like Leon S. Kennedy, Cregger opted for a new protagonist. He described Bryan as an “avatar” for how he imagines he would react if placed in the game’s world, stating, “I am not a badass at all,” in an interview with Polygon. Cregger felt creating a new character allowed him to honor the source material without stepping on the toes of existing storylines.

Bryan: A Relatable Protagonist

The character of Bryan is intentionally designed to be an ordinary individual thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Cregger emphasized that Bryan is not a highly trained operative, but rather someone who would react with fear and uncertainty. This approach, as detailed in an interview with Deadline, aims to provide a relatable perspective for audiences, contrasting with the often-skilled protagonists found in action-horror games.

Early Footage and Release Date

Early footage of the film was revealed at CinemaCon in April 2026, showcasing Abrams’ character attempting a delivery in a snow-covered Raccoon City. The trailer, released by Sony, depicts Bryan encountering the monstrous entities inhabiting the city, turning his mission into a fight for survival. The film likewise stars Paul Walter Hauser as Carl, Zach Cherry as Dave, Kali Reis as Pauline and Johnno Wilson as Max.

Cregger’s Vision for the Film

Cregger’s goal is to deliver a film that feels like “playing a game in the world of the game,” as he told IGN, while maintaining a distinct identity. He aims to capture the vibe and pacing of the Resident Evil series, creating a terrifying experience for audiences. The director’s approach is to tell a new story that complements the existing canon, rather than attempting a direct adaptation or alteration of established events.

The Resident Evil film is scheduled for theatrical release on September 18, 2026.