Early buzz erupts for Zach Cregger's Resident Evil after partial screening
Sony Pictures recently hosted a press screening for just the opening act of the upcoming horror reboot, according to JoBlo. Attendees were shown the initial half-hour of footage, and their immediate reactions have flooded social media with praise.
The outlet's own reporter, JimmyO, was among those who viewed the material. He called the footage "f*cking great," commending director Zach Cregger's work and Austin Abrams's performance as the lead character, Bryan. Per the report, Abrams is said to bring a grounded, likable quality to the role, balancing scares with humor.
Other early impressions shared online describe the preview as wild, fresh, and surprisingly funny. Multiple viewers noted the film's intense gore and atmospheric scares, with one stating it effectively captures the feeling of playing a survival horror game.
The movie has officially been rated R for strong bloody violence, gore, and language. Cregger has previously stated this project is his most violent to date. The story follows Bryan, a medical courier played by Abrams, who gets trapped in a biohazard outbreak.
Resident Evil is scheduled to open in theaters on September 18, 2026.
