Resident Evil: First Plot Details Revealed

Austin Abrams could play the lead role

By Jonas Reichel on 4 min reading time

The "Resident Evil" franchise is back! The reboot of the zombie series is being helmed by "Barbarian" director Zach Cregger – and now the first plot details have been revealed!

Based on a report by Hollywood insider Daniel Richtman, the story centers on a laid-back organ courier named Bryan, who is sent to the Raccoon City General Hospital at night. On his way there, he accidentally hits a strange woman with his car. She survives, but something about her isn't quite right. When Bryan tries to help her, he is suddenly attacked by tentacle-based mutations.

Zach Cregger has already hinted that the reboot will be more closely based on the original video games. This means: much more horror and suspense. It is currently assumed that the role of Bryan will be played by Austin Abrams. Abrams gained recognition for his role in the series "Euphoria" and previously worked with Cregger on the film "Weapons". Information on the rest of the cast is still under wraps. The new "Resident Evil" movie is currently slated for release on September 18, 2026.

The Best Movie Tips for Zombie Fans: Undead, Apocalypse, and Thrills

Zombie films have held an unbroken fascination for horror fans for decades. They combine thrills, social criticism, and often a pinch of black humor. Whether you prefer the classic, slow-moving undead or are a fan of raging infected – the zombie genre is more diverse than many people think. Here you will find a selection of exciting movies that will make every zombie fan's heart beat faster.

Classics of the Genre: The Roots of the Zombie Movies

If you want to understand where it all began, you can't go past "Night of the Living Dead" (1968) by George A. Romero. This black and white film laid the foundations for the modern zombie image: the living dead eating human flesh, a small group of survivors in a house, and a socio-critical message in the background.

Another legendary movie is "Dawn of the Dead" (1978), Romero's second installment in his zombie series. Set largely in a shopping mall, it is not only a gripping horror thriller, but also a satirical examination of consumerism. Those who prefer more modern images can watch the 2004 remake – faster, more brutal, and more action-packed.

Action-Packed Zombie Apocalypse

If you like it fast-paced and spectacular, you should watch "World War Z" (2013). Here we are not dealing with shuffling zombies, but with extremely fast, aggressive infected. Brad Pitt fights against the global plague, and the mass scenes with hordes of zombies are impressively directed.

Another action hit is "Train to Busan" (2016), a South Korean surprise success. A zombie epidemic suddenly breaks out on a moving train. The movie combines intense suspense, emotional characters, and creative scenarios. If you want more after that, you can watch the prequel "Seoul Station" (animated) or the sequel "Peninsula".

Image of TRAIN TO BUSAN 2: Peninsula Trailer (2020)

Humorous Zombie Comedies

Not all zombie films are dark. Sometimes horror is mixed with humor. A prime example is "Shaun of the Dead" (2004), a British horror comedy in which two friends fight the zombie apocalypse with beer and a talent for improvisation. The movie is funny, but still affectionate towards the genre.

Similarly crazy is "Zombieland" (2009). Here, a disparate group of survivors – including Woody Harrelson and Emma Stone – fight for their lives while establishing bizarre "survival rules". The film is full of black humor and has a successful sequel in the form of "Zombieland 2" (2019).

Image of ZOMBIELAND 2: Double Tap Trailer (2019)

Dark and Intense: For Horror Fans with Strong Nerves

Some zombie movies focus less on humor and more on an oppressive atmosphere. "28 Days Later" (2002) by Danny Boyle is a milestone in this area. After a viral outbreak, London is deserted and only a few survivors are left to fight against the rapidly spreading infection. The movie is dark, brutal, and oppressively realistic.

Also intense is "REC" (2007), a Spanish found-footage horror. A reporter accompanies the fire department into a residential building – and witnesses a nightmarish outbreak. The movie is claustrophobic, shocking and is considered one of the best modern zombie horror films. It was followed by "REC 2" and later by two more sequels.

Image of 28 YEARS LATER Trailer (2025)

Unusual Gems of the Genre

Anyone looking for something outside the mainstream should watch "The Girl with All the Gifts" (2016). The movie tells the story of a world in which fungal infections turn people into zombie-like creatures. But what makes it special is young Melanie, who is both infected and intelligent. Here, the zombie theme is combined with moral and philosophical questions.

Another exciting recommendation is "Cargo" (2017) with Martin Freeman. In a post-apocalyptic Australia, an infected father tries to bring his baby to safety before he himself becomes a zombie. The movie is calmer and more emotional and shows the human side of the apocalypse.

Image of THE GIRL WITH ALL THE GIFTS Trailer (2016)

For Fans of Splatter and Trash

Sometimes it can be more exaggerated and bloody. "Braindead" (1992) by Peter Jackson – yes, the director of "The Lord of the Rings" – is a splatter comedy that has achieved cult status. Lots of fake blood, absurd scenes, and black humor make this movie unforgettable.

"Planet Terror" (2007) by Robert Rodriguez is also a wonderfully trashy zombie action film in the grindhouse style. Everything explodes, mutates, and fights – including a woman with a machine gun prosthetic.

Conclusion: There's Something for Every Zombie Fan

Zombie movies are far more than just blunt horror. They can reflect social issues, deliver thrilling action, tell heartbreaking stories, or simply offer bloody fun. Whether you love Romero's classics, are looking for adrenaline kicks like "Train to Busan" or prefer to laugh at "Shaun of the Dead" – the genre has the right undead movie for every taste. So grab some popcorn, turn off the lights, and get ready for the next zombie marathon!

Image of The Best ZOMBIE Movies (Trailers)