WNN Monday Movie Review: Resident Evil (2026)

Cherryville, NC (WNN) - The newest Resident Evil movie is out just in time to start your October movie binge, so how does it stack up? While some films in the Resident Evil universe focus more on action, this film returns to the series roots in horror.

Cast and Plot

Main character, Bryan Hodukavich, entering Racoon City

Sony Pictures Releasing

The film follows Bryan, played by Austin Abrams, as he is flung into the events leading up to the Raccoon City outbreak from Resident Evil 2. After accepting a delivery job for an unknown package, he finds things awry while attempting to make what should. While the film doesn't follow the game's plot and instead tells its own story, longtime fans will be rewarded with references to games, sometimes played comically, that lessen the tension in the horror scenes. While the film features other recognizable actors such as Paul Walter Hauser, Zach Cherry, and Kali Reis, it spends most of its time on the lonely and terrifying journey of its main character, Bryan.

Production

The film has been notable as the highest-grossing film in Resident Evil history, with it making $320.2 million worldwide. Sony Pictures Releasing released it. The film was directed by Zach Creggar and co-written by Shay Hatten, with a $75 million budget. Its opening weekend also broke franchise records, accounting for $60.1 million of the film's total earnings so far.

The Hoot Review Scale

• 5 Hoots - Outstanding filmmaking with emotional or cultural impact
• 4 hoots - Great movie with some minor flaws. Would recommend to a friend.
• 3 Hoots. Enjoyable, but not groundbreaking. 
• 2 Hoots - It was okay, but it falls short of expectations or potential. 
• 1 Hoot - Weak story and/or poor execution. 

4.0 Hoot Review Rating

I give Resident Evil a 4.0 rating because it can be so rewarding for longtime fans. Certain moments feel like they were pulled straight from the series roots, and while the film is entirely cohesive without knowledge of the games, references are strewn about at a rapid pace. So whether you're looking to spend some time on the edge of your seat or you want to enjoy one of the longest-running horror franchises in history, this film is for you.

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