Early test screening reactions for the upcoming Resident Evil reboot are overwhelmingly positive, with viewers describing it as a non-stop, high-tension thrill ride that finally captures the spirit of the classic games.
According to World of Reel, the 90-minute film—directed by Zach Cregger (Barbarian, Weapons)—was screened recently, and the consensus is “strongly positive.” One attendee called it “a horror version of Fury Road,” praising its “all gas, no brakes” pacing and relentless sense of dread.
What We Know About the Plot
The story follows Bryan (played by Austin Abrams from The Walking Dead), a package delivery courier who arrives in Raccoon City with a mysterious briefcase—just as a deadly virus outbreak begins. Reactions describe Bryan as a “player avatar,” moving from one nightmare scenario to the next in environments filled with practical-effect monsters that feel straight out of the early Resident Evil games.
Key highlights from the screening feedback:
- Heavy emphasis on tension and atmosphere rather than convoluted lore dumps
- Small, contained plot that feels more cinematic than previous live-action entries
- Strong use of practical effects for creatures and set pieces
- Faithful to the “journey” of playing the games (as Cregger intended)
Zach Cregger’s Vision
Cregger, a longtime Resident Evil fan, has been vocal about wanting the movie to replicate the experience of playing the games rather than simply retelling specific storylines. He said last year:
“It takes place in the world of the games, but most importantly the journey you’ll have as a viewer of watching this movie is going to be similar to the journey you have as a player when you play these games.”
The reboot features an original cast and story, with no direct ties to the previous live-action films starring Milla Jovovich.
Release Info
- Release Date: Fall 2026 (exact date still TBA)
- Director: Zach Cregger
- Star: Austin Abrams as Bryan
Early Reactions Summary
Most attendees praised the film’s pacing, practical effects, and game-like tension, calling it a major step up from past adaptations. While test screenings don’t always translate to final audience or critic scores, the initial buzz is very encouraging for fans who have been waiting for a proper Resident Evil movie.
What do you think—will this finally be the Resident Evil movie we’ve been waiting for? Drop your thoughts below!
Sources: World of Reel, Double Toasted, Insider Gaming, Reddit r/movies, X reactions
