The Resident Evil Movie Understands Video Games Are Ridiculous, and That's Why It's Great

Resident Evil (2026) is a hilarious and faithful translation of the absurdity that gamers experience while playing the video game series. The film's lead, Brian, is portrayed by Austin Abrams, who is thrust into a situation he's only ever seen on screens. His character reflects the feelings of players as they navigate through ridiculous scenarios, such as fighting oversized characters and dealing with body horror.

Brian struggles with tasks he wouldn't normally face, like climbing endless flights of stairs and using firearms, but his reactions to these absurd situations often elicit laughter from the audience. The director, Zach Cregger, understands this sensation well, having spent countless hours playing Resident Evil games himself. The film balances tension and humor, punctuating moments of fear with comedic relief that mirrors the reactions of gamers when they encounter unexpected challenges in the game.

Brian's incompetence in handling weapons and navigating complex situations provides a relatable and humorous perspective on a world dominated by skilled protagonists like Chris Redfield and Leon Kennedy.