According to a report from /Film, Cregger's "Resident Evil" currently boasts an impressive 96% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 70 counted reviews. This stellar reception places it firmly above previous record holders and underscores a growing trend of successful video game adaptations in Hollywood.

The new "Resident Evil" film surpasses "Sonic the Hedgehog 3," which held the previous record with a solid 86% critical approval rating. The journey to this critical peak has been a long one for video game movies. For years, the genre struggled to find its footing, with many adaptations receiving lukewarm to poor reviews. Titles like "The Angry Birds Movie 2," which achieved a then-noteworthy 72%, were once considered top-tier in a landscape of critical disappointments.

Cregger's approach to the iconic Capcom franchise is particularly notable. Rather than directly adapting an existing game storyline, his "Resident Evil" movie carves out an original narrative within the established universe of the games. While this creative decision might initially raise eyebrows among some dedicated fans, critics have evidently embraced the fresh perspective. This strategy highlights a shift in how filmmakers are approaching beloved IP, moving beyond direct translations to explore new stories that honor the source material while forging their own path.

Zach Cregger's consistent track record in the horror genre is a key factor in this success. With "Barbarian" and the upcoming "Weapons" both earning critical acclaim, his latest achievement solidifies his reputation as a director with a keen eye for suspense and storytelling. His personal connection to the games, having grown up playing and loving them, is believed to contribute to his authentic and successful vision for the adaptation.

The original "Resident Evil" film series, which began in 2002, found significant box office success, grossing over $1 billion globally across multiple sequels. However, those films rarely resonated with critics, with the highest-rated entry, "Resident Evil: The Final Chapter" (2017), only reaching 39% on Rotten Tomatoes. The stark contrast in critical reception for Cregger's version signals a new era for the franchise and for video game adaptations as a whole.

The film is set to hit theaters on September 18, 2026, and its early critical success bodes well for its commercial prospects, further cementing Cregger's 'golden touch' in the industry.