Resident Evil

Zach Cregger’s Resident Evil is a frenetic take on horror, teetering between tongue-in-cheek self-awareness and genuine suspense but ultimately leans more into chaos than cohesion.

Set in an isolated mountain town besieged by a deadly mutagenic virus, the film thrusts hapless medical courier Jake (Austin Abrams) into a desperate fight for survival. The pacing veers between relentless action and oddly comical interludes, leaving viewers either exhilarated or bewildered. Cregger, previously known for his work on Weapons (2025), employs a jagged editing rhythm here that, while sometimes invigorating, more often than not amplifies disorientation rather than amplifying thrills. His decision to frame much of the horror in dimly lit, claustrophobic settings conjures a mood that should have resonated with dread but ultimately forces the carnage into the background.

Austin Abrams delivers a performance that encapsulates both the vulnerability and determination needed to navigate the mayhem, yet his charm is often overshadowed by a script that can’t quite decide if it’s playing things straight or courting absurdity. Supporting performances from Zach Cherry and Paul Walter Hauser round out the ensemble with comedic tones that don’t quite mesh with the horror facets—almost as if the film is parodying itself instead of engaging in legitimate scares. The cinematography oscillates between clever visual composition and disconcertingly shaky cam, making some key moments visually effective while rendering others a disservice.

What works

• Tension Building: The film creates intense moments that edge ever closer to chaos.
• Abrams’ Performance: He balances both drama and humor, enhancing his character’s plight.
• Visual Style: Some frames are beautifully composed, showcasing dread and urgency.

Where it stumbles

• Script Issues: The tonal dissonance leaves the plot feeling undercooked.
• Character Development: Supporting roles occasionally feel like caricatures rather than fully realized individuals.
• Inconsistent Pacing: The shift between straightforward horror and absurd humor can be jarring.

The Verdict

Resident Evil navigates its premise like a learner on a rollercoaster—sometimes exhilarating, other times just a wild jolt. While it has moments that resonate with terror, the overall narrative and character depth leave much to be desired. Cregger’s vision flickers with potential, yet it fails to maintain a steady course in this chaotic landscape.