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‘Resident Evil’ Review: Zach Cregger Revives the Franchise With a Bold New Vision

The ‘Weapons’ filmmaker injects fresh energy, brutal scares and unexpected ambition into the long-running video game adaptation.

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‘Resident Evil’ Review: Zach Cregger Revives the Franchise With a Bold New Vision

There is a moment early in Resident Evil when it becomes clear that Zach Cregger is not interested in simply dusting off another familiar horror property. His new film does not arrive burdened by a grand mythology lesson, nor does it expect viewers to memorise decades of games, movies and television adaptations.

Instead, it throws one deeply unprepared man into a terrible night and watches him scramble to stay alive.

That straightforward approach proves to be the reboot’s greatest strength. Following the inventive unease of Barbarian and the carefully controlled chaos of Weapons, Cregger gives this exhausted franchise something it has needed for years: a genuine sense of momentum.

An ordinary courier enters a very abnormal nightmare

The film follows Bryan, played with anxious, everyman charm by Austin Abrams. He is a medical courier making one final delivery through a dangerous snowstorm, tempted by the promise of extra money despite having neither the vehicle nor the confidence for such a journey.

His destination is Raccoon City.

Before Bryan can fully understand what is happening, a mysterious woman appears on the icy road and his routine assignment collapses into a desperate fight for survival. A viral outbreak linked to the sinister Umbrella Corporation is transforming people into grotesque, violent creatures, while the package Bryan is carrying may be far more important than he realises.

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It is a clean, almost video-game-like setup: move from one location to another, survive increasingly dangerous enemies and somehow protect the mission-critical item.

Cregger, who co-wrote the screenplay with Shay Hatten, understands that simplicity can be an advantage. Rather than getting trapped in exposition, the film keeps moving. New threats arrive before Bryan—or the audience—has time to feel comfortable.

Austin Abrams is the reboot’s secret weapon

Bryan is not the kind of hero audiences usually encounter in a zombie blockbuster. He is not a trained soldier, fearless police officer or unstoppable action machine. He hesitates, panics, complains and makes mistakes that occasionally leave viewers wondering how he has survived for so long.

That is precisely what makes him interesting.

Abrams plays Bryan as a fundamentally decent but spectacularly ill-equipped young man. His nervous muttering and flashes of misplaced confidence bring humour to the story without completely puncturing its tension. Even when surrounded by monsters, Bryan remains worried about the smaller indignities of his increasingly disastrous night.

It would have been easy to turn him into a one-note joke. Abrams finds something more recognisably human beneath the clumsiness. Bryan keeps trying to help people even when doing so makes his situation considerably worse. He may be hopeless with a weapon, but he is not without courage.

The supporting cast—including Zach Cherry, Kali Reis and Paul Walter Hauser—adds personality to the madness. Still, this is largely Abrams’ movie, and his performance gives the relentless action a surprisingly warm centre.

Cregger turns the movie into a playable nightmare

Visually, the reboot embraces its gaming origins without feeling like a collection of empty references. Cinematographer Dariusz Wolski frequently keeps the camera close to Bryan, following his eyeline and placing viewers just behind his shoulder as he investigates dark rooms, narrow corridors and abandoned spaces.

The perspective creates the uncomfortable sensation of controlling a character who has entered a dangerous level without learning the buttons.

Cellphone lights, car headlights and dim artificial illumination cut through the darkness, revealing just enough to make every unexplored corner feel threatening. The film’s snowy opening soon gives way to bloodier, more claustrophobic environments as Bryan moves deeper into the outbreak.

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Cregger also proves that the traditional jump scare is not dead. The film uses several, including at least one beautifully timed shock that feels earned rather than mechanically inserted.

This version of Resident Evil gradually moves beyond conventional zombie horror and becomes a full creature feature. The mutations grow stranger, the encounters become more elaborate and the practical-looking physical effects give the monsters a satisfyingly unpleasant presence.

The humour helps—until it begins competing with the horror

Cregger’s background in comedy remains visible throughout the movie. Bryan’s exhausted reactions often generate laughs precisely because the danger surrounding him is so extreme. For much of the film, that combination works beautifully: the humour releases tension without destroying it, allowing the next scare to land even harder.

The balance becomes less precise in the second half.

As the film grows louder and more action-heavy, Bryan’s constant commentary occasionally weakens the fear that Cregger has worked so carefully to create. Some viewers may enjoy the increasingly playful tone, while those expecting an uncompromising horror experience could find that the comedy arrives too frequently.

The finale also feels slightly abrupt. Bryan is given the outline of a meaningful personal journey, but the film stops before fully completing it. After spending so much time turning him into a character worth caring about, the story appears more interested in reaching its final set piece than examining how the night has changed him.

It is not a disastrous ending, but it prevents a thrilling movie from becoming a truly great one.

A reboot that finally understands the assignment

Based on the celebrated survival-horror games created by Capcom, Resident Evil has previously produced six films starring Milla Jovovich, the 2021 reboot Welcome to Raccoon City and a short-lived Netflix series.

Cregger wisely avoids trying to recreate any of them.

His movie tells an original story inside the recognisable Resident Evil world, using the games’ atmosphere and progression rather than merely repeating their plots. Long-time players will notice familiar imagery and ideas, but newcomers are never made to feel as though they have arrived halfway through the story.

Produced by companies including Constantin Film and PlayStation Productions, and distributed by Sony Pictures, the film is scheduled to reach theatres on September 18, 2026.

Cregger may not have delivered the deepest film of his career, but he has created one of the most enjoyable Resident Evil adaptations yet. It is lean, gruesome, energetic and anchored by an endearing lead performance from Abrams.

After years of diminishing returns, this is a franchise that finally feels dangerously alive again.

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Inde Navarrette Teases Marvel Future After X-Men and Heat 2 Talks

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LOS ANGELES — Hollywood’s newest breakout talent, Inde Navarrette, is already attracting attention from some of the industry’s biggest franchises and filmmakers following her acclaimed performance in Obsession.

After earning praise for her work in the hit project, Navarrette has revealed that she is actively exploring her next career move and remains open to stepping into the world of superheroes. The actress recently disclosed that she has held discussions with filmmakers connected to both the highly anticipated X-Men reboot and the upcoming sequel to Heat.

For many young actors, a successful breakout role can become both a blessing and a challenge. Navarrette appears fully aware of that reality. Speaking about her future ambitions, she emphasized her desire to prove that her success was not a one-time phenomenon.

“I really want to prove Obsession wasn’t just lightning in a bottle,” she said.

The statement reflects the mindset of an actress determined to build a long-lasting career rather than rely on a single breakthrough performance.

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Marvel Possibilities on the Horizon

The mention of conversations involving Marvel Studios immediately sparked speculation among fans. With Marvel continuing to expand its cinematic universe and actively developing a new chapter for the X-Men franchise, industry observers are already wondering whether Navarrette could become one of the next major additions to the superhero universe.

While no official casting announcements have been made, her openness to joining a Marvel project signals that she is interested in taking on larger-scale productions alongside more character-driven roles.

The X-Men reboot remains one of the most anticipated projects under Marvel Studios, with fans eagerly waiting to see which new generation of actors will inherit some of the franchise’s most iconic characters.

A Different Path With ‘Heat 2’

At the same time, Navarrette’s reported meetings related to Heat 2 suggest she is also considering opportunities outside the superhero genre.

The original Heat, directed by legendary filmmaker Michael Mann, is widely regarded as one of the greatest crime thrillers ever made. Any involvement in its sequel would place Navarrette alongside a project carrying enormous prestige and expectations.

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For an actress seeking to demonstrate versatility, balancing franchise entertainment with serious dramatic work could prove to be a smart career strategy.

Building Momentum After ‘Obsession’

The success of Obsession has undoubtedly changed the trajectory of Navarrette’s career. Industry insiders have increasingly viewed her as one of Hollywood’s emerging talents capable of leading both streaming and theatrical projects.

As casting conversations continue across the entertainment industry, Navarrette appears focused on finding roles that challenge her creatively while also expanding her audience reach.

Whether that journey leads her into the world of mutants, crime dramas, or something entirely unexpected, one thing is clear: Hollywood is paying attention.

For now, fans will have to wait and see which opportunity she chooses next. But after the impact of Obsession, the actress seems determined to ensure her breakout moment becomes the foundation of a much larger story.

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Can Disney’s Live-Action Moana Win Over Audiences? Dwayne Johnson Returns as Maui

With the beloved franchise back on the big screen less than two years after its animated sequel, Disney is betting on nostalgia, star power, and a fresh take to deliver another box office success.

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After the remarkable worldwide success of Moana 2, Disney is returning to one of its most cherished modern franchises—but this time with a live-action twist. The studio’s upcoming adaptation of the 2016 animated hit arrives with sky-high expectations and a simple yet difficult mission: prove that audiences are ready to revisit the Pacific adventure once again.

The film also marks the return of Dwayne Johnson as the larger-than-life demigod Maui, a character that helped redefine the original movie’s legacy. While Johnson’s comeback is expected to attract longtime fans, industry analysts believe the film faces a unique challenge. Unlike most franchise revivals, this release comes less than two years after Moana 2 enjoyed an exceptional run in cinemas, making it one of Disney’s biggest recent theatrical successes.

The timing has sparked debate across Hollywood. Can audiences embrace another version of the same beloved story so soon, or will franchise fatigue begin to surface?

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Disney clearly believes the answer is yes.

The original Moana, released in 2016, gradually evolved into one of Disney’s most-watched films through streaming platforms and home entertainment. Its unforgettable soundtrack, rich Polynesian-inspired storytelling, and inspiring coming-of-age narrative transformed it into a cultural phenomenon that continues to resonate with families around the world.

Rather than creating a brand-new chapter, the live-action film revisits the original journey of Moana as she sets sail across the ocean to restore balance to her island, accompanied by Maui on another epic adventure. The combination of familiar storytelling with modern visual effects is expected to introduce the franchise to a new generation while offering longtime fans a fresh cinematic experience.

For Disney, the project represents more than another remake. It reflects the company’s ongoing strategy of reimagining animated classics as live-action blockbusters, following previous successes such as The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin. However, recent adaptations have produced mixed box-office results, making the performance of Moana especially significant for the studio’s future plans.

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Much of the spotlight naturally falls on Dwayne Johnson, whose portrayal of Maui remains one of the franchise’s defining elements. His charisma, larger-than-life screen presence, and deep association with the character are expected to be among the film’s biggest strengths.

The movie also carries heightened expectations because of the extraordinary momentum generated by Moana 2. Sequels often build anticipation for future installments, but launching a live-action retelling so soon after a successful sequel is relatively uncommon for a major Hollywood franchise. That makes this release an interesting test of audience demand rather than simply another remake.

Despite questions surrounding its commercial prospects, Disney remains optimistic. Family films continue to perform strongly in theaters when they offer spectacle, emotional storytelling, and recognizable characters—qualities that have always been central to the Moana brand.

Whether the live-action adaptation becomes another billion-dollar success or faces tougher competition at the global box office, one thing is certain: Disney is once again placing one of its most valuable modern franchises at the center of the cinematic conversation.

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David Ellison Makes Surprise Washington Push as Hollywood Tax Credit Battle Heats Up… Will Congress Deliver a Lifeline for the Film Industry?

As legal battles over film incentives continue across the United States, Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison personally lobbies lawmakers in Washington, seeking stronger federal tax support for Hollywood productions.

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Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison arrives in Washington, D.C., to advocate for a proposed federal tax credit that could reshape the future of film and television production in the United States.

The fight over the future of film production incentives in the United States has entered a critical phase, with David Ellison taking his campaign directly to Washington, D.C.

The Paramount Skydance chief executive recently met with Republican members of the House Ways and Means Committee, urging lawmakers to consider a federal tax credit aimed at strengthening America’s entertainment industry. His visit comes at a time when the sector is navigating increasing production costs, fierce international competition, and a legal challenge backed by a coalition of 12 U.S. states.

The move signals that Hollywood’s biggest studios are becoming more actively involved in shaping policy rather than waiting for lawmakers to act.


A Federal Tax Credit Could Reshape Film Production

For years, individual U.S. states have competed to attract film and television productions by offering generous tax incentives. These programs have helped generate local jobs, boost tourism, and support thousands of businesses connected to filmmaking.

However, industry leaders argue that the current state-by-state approach is no longer enough.

Countries including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and several European nations continue to expand attractive production incentives, encouraging major studios to film overseas. Executives believe a nationwide federal tax credit could help keep more productions—and the jobs they create—inside the United States.

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David Ellison’s meetings with lawmakers focused on presenting this broader economic case, emphasizing that entertainment is not only a cultural export but also a major contributor to employment, technology, and local economies.


Legal Dispute Adds Pressure

The policy discussions are unfolding alongside a lawsuit backed by 12 states that has intensified debate around government support for the film industry.

Although the legal proceedings focus on broader questions surrounding production incentives, the dispute has increased pressure on policymakers to clarify how future film tax programs should operate.

Industry observers believe the combination of legal uncertainty and growing international competition makes this an important moment for Congress to examine whether federal incentives should complement existing state programs.


Why Studios Are Pushing for Reform

Hollywood has experienced significant disruption over the past several years.

The pandemic, labor strikes, inflation, changing audience habits, and the rapid expansion of streaming platforms have transformed how movies and television shows are financed and produced.

Major studios now face tougher decisions about where to shoot projects, often selecting locations based largely on available financial incentives rather than creative considerations alone.

Supporters of a federal tax credit argue that stronger incentives would help preserve skilled jobs, encourage infrastructure investment, and strengthen America’s position as a global filmmaking hub.

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Critics, however, caution that any nationwide program would require careful oversight to ensure taxpayer funds generate measurable economic benefits.


David Ellison Takes a Public Leadership Role

As CEO of Paramount Skydance, David Ellison has become one of Hollywood’s most influential executives following the company’s high-profile merger activities and expansion plans.

Rather than leaving lobbying efforts to industry associations, Ellison’s direct engagement with congressional leaders demonstrates how seriously major studios view the current policy debate.

His visit also reflects growing cooperation between entertainment executives and lawmakers seeking ways to strengthen domestic investment while keeping the United States competitive in an increasingly global media landscape.


What’s Next?

No immediate legislative decision has been announced, but conversations surrounding a federal Hollywood tax credit are expected to continue in Congress over the coming months.

If lawmakers eventually approve such a measure, it could significantly influence where future blockbuster films, television series, and streaming productions are developed and produced.

For Hollywood, the outcome may shape investment decisions for years to come. For policymakers, it represents a broader debate about economic competitiveness, job creation, and America’s creative industries in an increasingly global market.

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