Resident Evil: Initial reactions to first 30 minutes – Here's what critics are saying
The rulings so far have been quite clear-cut
The new "Resident Evil" movie, directed and written by Zach Cregger, gives the horror franchise a fresh new look. But what do the critics have to say? Full reviews of the movie aren't available yet. However, the first 30 minutes of "Resident Evil" have now been shown to some members of the press – and they've taken to social media to share their thoughts on the film's opening.
The premise of "Resident Evil" has been known for some time. The synopsis reads: Courier Bryan (Austin Abrams) takes on a seemingly harmless job: delivering a biomedical package. What begins as an ordinary workday turns into hell on earth. One night, no way out – and a horror that devours everything.
It remains to be seen whether the entire film will be a hit. However, the first 30 minutes are already generating extremely positive reactions. Although this, of course, doesn't allow us to draw any conclusions about the final product yet, fans of the video game series will likely be pleased that the start of the new "Resident Evil" adaptation is being so well-received. Below, you'll find out what the initial reactions have been like, based on some specific reviews.
Here's what critics are saying about the first 30 minutes of Resident Evil
Among those expressing particular enthusiasm is Tyler Disney:
"Saw the first 30 mins of #ResidentEvilㅤ and I am so hooked. Zach Cregger puts you straight into the world. It's fresh and original and also surprisingly funny! Austin Abrams is the right choice as the lead role and the gore is fucking awesome!! Can't wait to see the rest!"
Jonathan Sim also singles out Austin Abrams' performance. He writes:
"A hilariously dark vision from Zach Cregger. Austin Abrams is AMAZING as this bumbling protagonist. Features one of the most genius jump scares of the year. Hysterical and so fucking twisted."
Christopher Gallardo also praises the lead actor and goes on to discuss the video game it's based on:
"Zach Cregger really keeps you on your toes with the scares and Austin Abrams' chaotic and clumsy energy perfectly fits the intense tone. It truly reflects that gaming experience every player has with survival horrors."
Josh Blumenkranz also highlights the gameplay aspect and is thrilled:
"The first 30 minutes of #ResidentEvil so freaking good! You follow Austin Abrams and feel like you are in the game! It's funny, violent and has scares! Can't wait to see the rest!"
It won't be long until the movie hits theaters
You won't have to wait much longer to see the rest of the movie. "Resident Evil" hits theaters on September 18, 2026. Alongside lead actor Austin Abrams, the cast includes Zach Cherry, Kali Reis, and Paul Walter Hauser. It'll be interesting to see if Zach Cregger's film actually lives up to the expectations fueled by the initial reactions. Especially since the previous "Resident Evil" adaptations by director Paul W. S. Anderson, starring Milla Jovovich, have had a pretty rough time with film critics.
In any case, Zach Cregger is a director who caused quite a stir with his latest film "Weapons,". The movie became a horror hit that was celebrated by critics and even earned Amy Madigan the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress this year. Cregger had already worked with Austin Abrams on "Weapons." In addition to "Resident Evil," the actor is likely to make headlines soon with another film that's already generating a lot of buzz: In the thriller "Whalefall," he plays a diver fighting for survival – after being swallowed by a massive whale. But first, he'll get to show what he's made of in "Resident Evil." You can get a glimpse of the horror film in the trailer:
