Director Zach Cregger's new Resident Evil film has received a positive review, described as a fresh and well-balanced take on the flagging franchise that blends horror, humour, and over-the-top gore effectively. The film revitalises a series that had been struggling, following the critical failure of 2021's Welcome to Raccoon City and the cancellation of a 2022 Netflix series.

Rather than adapting the games directly, Cregger created an original story with new characters set within the Resident Evil universe, essentially functioning as an alternate timeline or "side quest" to the main narrative. The film is set in the present day as the T-virus spreads through Raccoon City, following medical courier Bryan (played by Austin Abrams) who becomes stranded at a farmhouse after hitting a zombie whilst driving. Abrams delivers a strong performance, navigating the film's conflicting tones with his expressive acting, particularly in scenes featuring the film's grotesque practical effects.