The Resident Evil cinematic universe is preparing for another resurrection, and this time, it`s not merely a reboot but an announced re-imagination. Director Zach Cregger, known for his distinctive work on “Barbarian” and “Weapons,” is at the helm, promising an interpretation of Capcom`s iconic horror franchise unlike anything fans have witnessed before. Adding a compelling layer of intrigue to this ambitious project is the recent casting announcement of Paul Walter Hauser, an actor celebrated for his nuanced, often surprising, performances.
Hauser`s Unconventional Path to Raccoon City
Paul Walter Hauser, whose recent accolades include “The Luckiest Man in America” and a memorable turn in Clint Eastwood`s “Richard Jewell,” brings a unique gravitas to any role. From the intense drama of a wrongfully accused security guard to the comedic timing in “Cobra Kai,” Hauser possesses a range that often defies easy categorization. His inclusion in “Resident Evil,” alongside Austin Abrams, suggests Cregger is assembling a cast capable of delivering performances that transcend typical horror archetypes. One might even playfully ponder if his experience navigating the cutthroat world of `80s game shows in “Press Your Luck” prepared him for the horrors of zombie-infested Raccoon City. Perhaps strategy under pressure is a transferable skill.
A Vision Unbound by Precedent
Cregger`s approach to “Resident Evil” is nothing short of audacious. He openly declares that his film will not re-tell any specific game stories, yet it will “live in the world” of “Resident Evil 2” and “3” – games renowned for their claustrophobic survival horror and intricate narrative. Intriguingly, Cregger states the movie will adopt the tone of “Resident Evil 4,” a pivotal entry that pivoted the series towards more action-oriented horror while maintaining its signature dread. “I`ve never seen a movie like it,” Cregger asserts, adding, “I am beyond excited making this.”
This statement is particularly significant given the legacy of the six “Resident Evil” films helmed by Paul W.S. Anderson, which collectively grossed over $1 billion. Cregger, with a charming candor, admits he hasn`t seen Anderson`s films and cautions that fans of those adaptations might not find his new vision appealing. This is not just a director making a movie; it`s a creative calling a shot, aiming for an entirely different target audience and aesthetic. It`s a bold departure, signaling a complete break from past cinematic iterations rather than a mere continuation.
Filming Begins: The Prague Connection and a Glimpse into 2026
With principal photography slated to commence in October in Prague, the production machinery is officially in motion. This choice of location, a city steeped in gothic history and architectural grandeur, offers a potentially atmospheric backdrop for the horrors Cregger intends to unleash.
Sony Pictures, the distributor of the previous billion-dollar “Resident Evil” saga, is once again backing this venture, underscoring their continued belief in the franchise`s cinematic potential. The film is currently targeting a September 18, 2026 release date, giving audiences ample time to speculate, anticipate, and perhaps revisit their favorite iterations of the games.
Coincidentally, Capcom, the creators of the original game series, are also gearing up for significant releases in 2026, with “Resident Evil 9: Requiem” set for February and ports for the Nintendo Switch 2. This parallel timeline of game and film releases suggests a synchronized effort to keep the “Resident Evil” universe vibrant and terrifying across all media.
Zach Cregger`s “Resident Evil” is shaping up to be more than just another video game adaptation. It`s a directorial statement, a gamble on reinventing a beloved IP with a fresh cast and a defiant vision. Whether it will appease the purists, captivate new audiences, or carve out its own unique niche remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: expect the unexpected.
Callum Darby