The Resident Evil movies might not be well-liked among critics, but there’s no question they have been hits with fans, especially the ones directed by Paul W.S. Anderson. The original one might be the best, but there’s something to like about them all. His universe has since wrapped up, but the franchise isn’t anywhere near finished. As part of a reboot of the film series independent of Anderson’s universe, there is 2021’s Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City, hailing from director Johannes Roberts. The latest film adapted the first two games from the franchise into a single movie, to less than mixed results. It included a mid-credits scene that teased a sequel, but a new report indicates a new director is on board the movie franchise.
According to insider Jeff Sneider, director Zach Cregger, known most recently for his work on the acclaimed horror movie Barbarian, could be hopping onto the Resident Evil saddle. He was originally set to direct Sony’s Clue movie, but it looks like that’s no longer the case. For what it is worth, Cregger would make for an excellent addition to the Resident Evil universe. Cregger has proven he has horror chops and can sprinkle in comedic elements when they’re needed. It is unknown if Cregger’s film will be another reboot, or if it’ll pick up where the last one left off.
Keep in mind that rumors like this have to be taken with a grain of salt, as there is always a chance they won’t come to fruition. Cregger’s next film, Weapons, starring Josh Brolin and Julia Garner, is currently scheduled for release on January 16, 2026. He also has two other films he has producer credit on, but other than that, his schedule is wide open for Resident Evil or whatever his next project ends up being.
What Does the Future of Resident Evil Look Like?
The last live-action Resident Evil film was released back in 2021, and outside the latest rumored movie by Zach Cregger, there’s not currently another one on the horizon. Between 2002 and 2017, there were six live-action films along with some animated ones sprinkled in, so this is a slow period for the franchise, all things considered.
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There’s no question there’s still quite an appetite for Resident Evil as a whole. The latest video game release, the Resident Evil 4 remake, was a smash hit critically. This was no small feat, considering many people look at the original Resident Evil 4 as one of the best games ever made. Fans are still awaiting word on what’s next for the series, chronologically following 2021’s Resident Evil Village. The animated Resident Evil: Death Island released in 2023 is set in the same continuity as the games, and it was a modest hit among critics and fans. However, that film was set in between mainline entries and didn’t take place after Village.
As for TV, there doesn’t appear to be any plans for Netflix to revive its series, so one season is all fans get there. Netflix’s show was not well-received by fans or critics, so the streamer pulled the plug on it. Unfortunately, the 2022 show ended up being one of Lance Reddick’s last roles as he portrayed Albert Wesker, the franchise’s antagonist.