New Resident Evil Movie to Feature Original Story, Not Adapt Game Plots

Upcoming Resident Evil Film Will Introduce New Characters and Original Story

Earlier this year, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed rumors of yet another cinematic reboot for the Resident Evil universe. This new film is being helmed by Zach Cregger, known for directing and writing the thriller 'Barbarian'. In a recent interview with Inverse, Cregger offered a glimpse into his project, revealing that viewers should not expect a direct adaptation of familiar storylines or beloved characters from the games.

Instead, Cregger intends to tell an original story featuring new heroes. He assures fans, however, that this new narrative will still align with the established lore and rules of the game universe. Cregger reiterated his long-standing admiration for the franchise, explaining his decision to avoid adapting existing material by stating that the games are already self-contained and complete stories on their own.

“I'm the biggest fan of the series, and that's why I'm telling a story that follows its rules and is a love letter to the franchise. My story, though original, adheres to the canon of the games,” Cregger stated. “I won't tell Leon's story because it's already told in the games, and fans know everything perfectly. Those who want to see it can just play those games.”

As of now, the only official detail known about the film's plot is that it will feature one central protagonist. Constantin Film, which has held the screen rights to Resident Evil since the 1990s, is producing the picture. The project is also being created with the support of Sony, and its premiere is currently scheduled for September 18, 2026.

This approach marks a significant departure from previous Resident Evil film adaptations, which often faced criticism for loosely interpreting game narratives or focusing on original characters at the expense of established ones. By creating a new story within the existing canon, Cregger aims to offer a fresh perspective while maintaining a deep respect for the source material. For long-time fans of the game series, this could mean an exciting new chapter that expands the Resident Evil universe without treading familiar ground.