Sony secures Resident Evil franchise with Zach Cregger for 2026 reboot

Sony has successfully secured the rights to the Resident Evil franchise, marking the return of the iconic horror-action series to its hands. The studio triumphed in a competitive bidding war for not just the film rights to the popular video game adaptation, but also the opportunity to collaborate with acclaimed filmmaker Zach Cregger. The highly anticipated reboot is set for release on September 18, 2026.

'Zach Cregger.'

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

Cregger, who made waves with his writing and directing of the hit horror film Barbarian and is currently working on the ensemble project Weapons, is attached to write and direct the Resident Evil reboot. His fresh take on horror has generated significant buzz in the industry, and his involvement has helped revive interest in the franchise.

Originally part of Sony’s Screen Gems label, the Resident Evil series had been with Constantin Film since the late 1990s. The franchise’s fate took a pivotal turn earlier this year when it became available for purchase, sparking a fierce bidding war. In the end, Sony secured the rights under its Columbia Pictures banner, allowing for a larger budget and a fresh approach.

The reboot will be produced by Constantin Film and PlayStation Productions, with Shay Hatten, known for his work on John Wick: Chapter 4 and Army of the Dead, co-writing the script. While the previous Resident Evil films, which starred Milla Jovovich, were box office successes, it’s Cregger’s involvement that has reinvigorated interest in the series, drawing excitement from both fans and industry insiders.

Cregger’s Barbarian established him as a breakout director in the horror genre, and his follow-up film Weapons has been generating significant attention. Weapons is set to release in January 2026 under Warner Bros.’ New Line division, where Cregger has been granted final cut approval.

Sony and Constantin plan to move quickly, aiming to start filming Resident Evil by summer 2025, making it Cregger’s next major project. The collaboration signals a new era for the franchise, combining fresh talent with an established fan base.

Cregger is represented by CAA, Artists First, and Jackoway Austen.