Zach Cregger's Resident Evil Reboot Receives Strong Early Praise
Early screenings of Sony's Resident Evil reboot directed by Zach Cregger have drawn positive comments from several film critics, who highlighted its horror elements and faithful nods to the video-game series.
Sony Pictures' upcoming Resident Evil reboot, directed by Zach Cregger and starring Austin Abrams as a medical courier caught in a zombie outbreak, has generated favorable early reactions from members of the film press. Critics described the film as a "cinematic spectacle" and among the best adaptations of video games to date. > "Zach Cregger goes bigger, scarier, and at his most fun. This is how you make horror into a cinematic spectacle," wrote Tomatometer critic EJ Moreno on social media. > "Resident Evil taps into the relentless tension of the games. Zach Cregger has actually delivered the most faithful take yet. Very bloody, very funny, and it made me jump at least three times," added fellow Tomatometer critic Mark Cassidy. Film journalist Kellvin Chavez noted the movie maintains a fast pace from the opening scene and features "relentless suspense, gory action, and twisted creature designs," calling it the best Resident Evil film so far. Tristian Circa ’89 observed that the film balances intense horror with humorous moments and praised Abrams' performance as an "everyman" character. Variety contributor Jordan Moreau labeled the film one of the best recent horror movies and a strong video-game adaptation. The screenplay, co-written by Cregger and Shay Hatten, does not include established game characters such as Leon Kennedy or Jill Valentine, a choice that has drawn mixed responses from some fans. The movie is scheduled for theatrical release on September 18.