Based on the popular Japanese video game franchise, Resident Evil began its cinematic journey in 2002 with Paul W. S. Anderson‘s adaptation starring Milla Jovovich. The franchise spawned six films over fourteen years before Sony attempted a reboot in 2021 with director Johannes Roberts‘ Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City.

Earlier this year, the new “reinvention” of Resident Evil began with a tension-filled teaser that immediately distinguished itself from the previous films. It embraced a survival-horror approach that felt much closer to the experience of playing the games. Now, the first full trailer reveals more about the character we’ll be following and his connection to the story.

The official synopsis reads:

“Resident Evil follows Bryan (Austin Abrams), a medical courier who unwittingly finds himself in an action-packed, nonstop race for survival as one fateful, horrifying night collapses around him in chaos.”

My first impression of the trailer? It was underwhelming.

Visually, there are some great shots, but the overall approach and execution never build the kind of suspense that makes you desperate to see the film. There wasn’t a single moment that made me think, I have to watch this movie. This version of Resident Evil needs a stronger, more tension-filled trailer to sell its horror. Hopefully, Sony‘s next preview leans harder into the fear and atmosphere. Right now, the biggest reason I’m planning to see it is Zach Cregger‘s track record as a filmmaker.

Resident Evil was filmed for IMAX and opens in theaters on September 18, 2026.

Check out the trailer below and let us know what you think.