Directed by the talented Zach Cregger, known for his work on Barbarian, the highly anticipated new Resident Evil movie is set to hit theaters in 2026 under the banner of Sony Pictures. This release comes shortly after Cregger’s upcoming project, Weapons, which is also generating considerable buzz.
In a bold move in 2023, New Line Cinema established a strategic partnership with Barbarian writer and director Zach Cregger, along with the production team at BoulderLight Pictures. Following an intense bidding war, New Line emerged victorious to secure the rights for Weapons, which is slated for a theatrical release on January 16, 2026. As part of this deal, Cregger is reported to receive a lucrative eight-figure sum for his involvement in the film. In addition to Weapons, New Line has engaged BoulderLight Pictures through a first-look agreement to foster the development of innovative genre projects, including the recently greenlit sci-fi thriller Companion, a collaboration with Cregger that debuted at the end of January. Despite his work with New Line, Cregger is simultaneously directing a new Resident Evil film for Constantin Film. Interestingly, while Warner Bros., New Line’s parent company, participated in the bidding for distribution rights, Sony Pictures—previously the distributor for the entire Resident Evil franchise—secured the deal and plans to release this film on September 18, 2026.
Fans can look forward to two exciting new films from Zach Cregger in 2026, with just an eight-month gap between their releases, marking a significant year for the director.
Cregger will helm the new Resident Evil movie, and while specific details regarding the screenplay co-written with Shay Hatten, known for Army of the Dead, remain closely guarded, it is rumored that the narrative will return to the franchise’s original horror roots established in the classic Capcom game. This approach is designed to resonate with long-time fans and newcomers alike, rekindling the essence of survival horror.
Producing and co-financing the film is Constantin Film, with contributions from Robert Kulzer, Vertigo Entertainment’s Roy Lee and Miri Yoon, alongside PlayStation Productions. Nicole Brown is overseeing this exciting project for Sony’s Columbia Pictures, ensuring that the film meets high expectations and delivers a thrilling cinematic experience.
Cregger expressed his enthusiasm about the project, stating, “I’ve been a rabid fan of these games for decades, and to be able to bring this amazing title to life is a true honor.” Robert Kulzer echoed this sentiment, saying, “The world of Resident Evil experienced through Zach’s vision is an irresistible feat.” Furthermore, Sanford Panitch, President of Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group, praised Cregger, noting, “Zach is one of the most talented, exciting new directors to come on the scene in many years. His brilliant approach in restarting and refreshing this legendary Sony franchise instantly makes this one of our most important releases in 2026.”
The Resident Evil franchise has a rich history, initiated by director Paul W.S. Anderson, who crafted six films from Resident Evil in 2002 through to Resident Evil: The Final Chapter in 2017. The franchise saw a reboot in 2021 with director Johannes Roberts’ Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City. There were plans for a sequel to Welcome to Raccoon City, involving Raccoon HG Film Productions, which aimed to create a project titled Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles, inspired by the 2002 video game Resident Evil Zero. However, this project ultimately did not progress to production.
What are your thoughts on Zach Cregger taking the reins for a new Resident Evil movie? Are you excited about its release in 2026? We invite you to share your insights and anticipation by leaving a comment below.
