‘Resident Evil’ Officially Returns to Netflix With 6 Movies Next Month
Netflix is expanding its horror catalogue with six Resident Evil adaptations arriving in early September, strategically positioned just before a new theatrical Resident Evil film debuts later that month. The collection comprises three live-action films from Milla Jovovich's franchise run and three animated features centred on the character Leon S. Kennedy, following Sony Pictures' acquisition of distribution rights through a competitive bidding process.
The Resident Evil franchise, which originated as a video game series from Capcom in 1996, has evolved into one of the entertainment industry's most successful horror properties, boasting over 213 million video game sales and a sprawling presence across multiple media formats. The Netflix addition allows viewers to revisit previous instalments immediately ahead of the new theatrical entry, though the streaming library does not include every Resident Evil film adaptation.
- Netflix adds six Resident Evil films (live-action and animated) on September 1, 2026
- Timing precedes new theatrical Resident Evil release directed by Zach Cregger on September 18
- Collection includes three Milla Jovovich films and three Leon S. Kennedy-focused animated entries
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Netflix is adding six Resident Evil films to its streaming library at the start of September, timed to arrive shortly before a brand new Resident Evil film opens in cinemas later the same month. Half of the collection is made up of live-action instalments starring Milla Jovovich, while the other three are animated films built around Leon S. Kennedy, a well-known character from the games. Sony Pictures secured the rights to distribute this set after competing with other bidders.
Resident Evil began life in 1996 as a horror video game made by the Japanese company Capcom. It has since grown into one of the most commercially successful horror franchises around, with the games alone selling more than 213 million copies, and it now spans films, television and other media.
The Netflix deal matters because it lets fans catch up on part of the franchise's back catalogue right before the new cinema release, potentially building interest in it. It is worth noting, though, that Netflix's line-up does not include every Resident Evil film that has ever been made.