New Resident Evil Film Features Original Story, Confirms Cast and Release Date
According to director Zack Cregger, major details were released regarding the next film adaptation of Resident Evil. As he shared with Entertainment Weekly, the film will follow an entirely original story, and, contrary to the conjectures of fans, will not feature iconic game character Leon Kennedy.
An Original Narrative Within the Resident Evil Canon
Cregger made a point of saying that the story is new yet pays respect to the source material. He explained:
"It's in the Resident Evil world. I'm not gonna steal Leon and put him in an original story. I think that would be presumptuous. But I respect the games enough where I'm gonna like tell a Resident Evil story in the Resident Evil canon that still leaves everything they love intact from the games."
While he hadn't finished explaining his ideas, he was certain that once the audience would see the film, it would become clear to them how they fit into the canon.
Plot Details and Cast
The synopsis tells a story about a "hapless courier" who is sent to deliver a package to a far-off hospital and finds himself trapped in an outbreak, fighting for his life against hordes of mutated creatures. This dubious courier title will be likely played by Austin Abrams, the first cast member confirmed for the project.
Recently, it was announced that Paul Walter Hauser (Cobra Kai, The Fantastic Four: First Steps) has been added to the film's ensemble.
A New Beginning for the Film Franchise
This film is the third cinematic attempt for the survival horror series by CAPCOM. It is set after the six-movie saga helmed by Paul W.S. Anderson and the 2021 reboot Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City. A less faithful TV series was also made in 2022 but canceled after one season.
Release Date
Cregger's new film in the Resident Evil franchise is set to hit theaters on September 18, 2026.
