Zach Cregger, best known for Barbarian and the upcoming Weapons, is taking the director’s chair for the new Resident Evil film. Fans initially expected a faithful adaptation featuring the franchise’s iconic heroes like Leon S. Kennedy or Jill Valentine. However, Cregger has confirmed that his approach will be very different.

In an interview with Inverse, the director revealed that his movie will tell an original story within the Resident Evil universe, separate from the games’ main narratives. While he describes himself as “the biggest worshiper of the games,” he believes retelling Leon or Jill’s arcs is unnecessary.

“I’m not going to tell Leon’s story, because Leon’s story is told in the games,” Cregger explained. “Fans already have that.”

Instead, the film will follow a brand-new character — much like Milla Jovovich’s Alice from the early 2000s movies. Cregger stressed that the story will still “obey the lore” and serve as a “love letter” to the games, even if it strays from familiar plotlines.

This choice has divided the fanbase. Some welcome a fresh take that could attract new viewers, while others are disappointed they won’t see their favorite characters on the big screen. Cregger admits the decision may spark backlash.

“People are going to come for me online,” he said. “But I just want to make a really good movie and tell a story that’s compelling.”

The project is already moving fast. Cregger was confirmed as writer and director in January 2025, with Constantin Film and PlayStation Productions producing. Sony Pictures acquired distribution rights in March 2025, setting the film’s release date for September 18, 2026. Filming is scheduled to begin in the Czech Republic later this year.

Whether Cregger’s gamble will win over die-hard fans or primarily appeal to newcomers remains to be seen. But one thing is certain — this Resident Evil won’t simply rehash old stories.