According to official figures from CBO - Box-Office, the new "Resident Evil" film commanded an impressive 48,059 admissions during its opening week in France. This robust performance not only secured its position as the number one film among all new releases but also saw it outpace other notable titles such as Olivia Wilde's "L'Invitation" and Géraldine Nakache's "Si tu penses bien," which landed in second and third place, respectively.

While topping the weekly charts is a significant achievement, a deeper dive into the franchise's history reveals the reboot's nuanced success. Its opening week figures place it as the fifth-best debut for any "Resident Evil" film in France, indicating a solid, if not record-shattering, start for the long-running series. Crucially, Zach Cregger's take on the beloved universe appears to have resonated more positively with French audiences than its immediate predecessor. The new "Resident Evil" notably outperformed "Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City," the 2021 film directed by Johannes Roberts, which had registered 21,415 entries on its own opening day. This substantial increase in viewership suggests that the reboot's fresh creative vision and narrative approach have been well-received, perhaps addressing some of the criticisms leveled against earlier installments.

The strong reception in France underscores the enduring appeal and cultural impact of the "Resident Evil" brand. For a franchise that has successfully navigated multiple cinematic interpretations and a rich video game legacy, this box office victory serves as a promising indicator of its continued relevance in the global film landscape. As the film rolls out internationally, industry observers and fans alike will be keen to see if this initial momentum translates into broader success, potentially paving the way for further exploration of this iconic horror universe.