Austin Abrams has opened up about what attracted him to Resident Evil, in which he plays the lead role. Directed by Zach Cregger, the upcoming horror film marks Abrams’ first appearance in the long-running Resident Evil franchise and his second collaboration with Cregger following Weapons.
Abrams drawn to Cregger’s unique approach
One of the major factors that convinced Abrams to join Resident Evil was Cregger’s distinctive ability to blend horror and comedy. The actor said he was particularly drawn to the way the filmmaker can move between frightening and humorous moments without losing the intensity of the story.
Abrams praised Cregger’s sharp sense of humour and said the director’s ability to surprise audiences is a defining part of his filmmaking style.
“Zach’s humor makes me laugh because it’s so sharp. I really love his work because in one moment Zach can freak you out, and a second later, make you laugh. It’s his kind of flavoring,” Abrams said.
Bryan’s emotional journey appealed to Abrams
Beyond Cregger’s filmmaking style, Abrams was also interested in the emotional journey of his character, Bryan.
The actor explained that Bryan is still growing into adulthood and has some immature and selfish traits. However, he is also trying to take responsibility and do what he believes is right.
“Bryan’s emotional journey,” Abrams said while describing what interested him about the character.
He added, “Bryan still has some qualities of being immature and a little selfish, but he’s trying to be a man; he’s on the cusp of coming into his own. Ultimately, he wants to do the right thing and complete his task.”
Producer Miri Yoon praises Abrams
Producer Miri Yoon praised Abrams’ performance, describing the actor as “a gift” to the project.
Yoon highlighted Abrams’ natural and honest portrayal of Bryan and his ability to play an ordinary person caught in an extraordinary situation.
“Austin’s portrayal is very natural and honest. He’s so wonderful at playing the everyman, who stands in for all of us who have never handled a weapon and have no fighting or survival skills,” Yoon said.
She described Bryan as someone simply trying to survive a chaotic and dangerous situation filled with mayhem and gore.
Roy Lee highlights Abrams’ resilience
Producer Roy Lee also praised Abrams for bringing both physicality and emotional depth to the role.
“Austin brings a real sense of resilience to the role. He has the physical presence to handle the intense action, but he also gives the character heart and hope, so that you’re constantly rooting for him to survive the night,” Lee said.
The comments suggest that Bryan’s vulnerability and emotional journey will be an important part of the film alongside its horror and action elements.
Abrams reunites with Zach Cregger
Resident Evil marks Abrams’ second collaboration with Cregger after Weapons. Their latest project brings the actor into the established Resident Evil franchise while giving Cregger an opportunity to put his distinctive horror-comedy style on the property.
For Abrams, the combination of Cregger’s filmmaking approach and Bryan’s character arc played an important role in his decision to take on the project.
Resident Evil releases on September 18
Produced by Columbia Pictures and Constantin Film in association with TriStar Pictures, Resident Evil is scheduled to hit theatres on September 18, 2026.
Distributed in India by Sony Pictures Entertainment India, the film will release in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.