The new film in the Resident Evil franchise, directed by Zach Cregger, officially premiered today, September 18, but had already begun breaking records the night before. With over $9 million in pre-release screenings in the United States alone, the film is emerging as one of the biggest hits in the series. Expectations for the weekend are high, with experts predicting that box office receipts could reach between $40 million and $50 million.
Breaking Box Office Records
The Resident Evil movie surpassed the series' previous record for opening weekend box office receipts—which stood at just $1 million—set by Resident Evil: The Final Chapter in 2016. The new film's performance is especially impressive when compared to Cregger's previous film, Weapons, which grossed $5.75 million in its preview screenings.
Box Office Forecasts
With a budget of $75 million, not including marketing costs, expectations for the first weekend are high. The positive critical reception, including an 8/10 rating from GameSpot, could further boost box office receipts. The film is already considered the highest-rated video game adaptation to date.
Reviews and Reception
Critics have been generous with their praise for the new film. The fact that Resident Evil has become the highest-rated video game adaptation is a significant milestone, especially considering the generally low expectations for films based on video games. Cregger, the director, expressed his surprise at the reception, especially among the franchise’s most dedicated fans.
The Future of the Resident Evil Franchise
Zach Cregger has already mentioned having ideas for more movies in the Resident Evil franchise. However, he also reflected on the difficulty fans have in accepting a narrative that doesn’t follow the characters or stories from the original games. This raises questions about the future of video game adaptations for the big screen.
Comparative Performance
Compared to other movies based on video game franchises, Resident Evil stands out. The new movie has not only surpassed its predecessors but is also on track to become one of the year’s biggest box office hits. Box office performance can influence future decisions regarding sequels and spin-offs.
Concluding Remarks
With a strong start at the box office and a warm reception from critics, the new *Resident Evil* is poised to be a major hit. Fans and new viewers alike are eager to see how the story will unfold and whether more movies are on the horizon. This fresh take may be the key to revitalizing the franchise and winning over a new generation of fans.