'Resident Evil Posts Record Franchise Previews Of $8M-$9M

Key Points:

• Zach Cregger's new Resident Evil film posted a strong preview night with over $8 million, potentially reaching $9 million, positioning it for a weekend opening between $40 million and $50 million, with some insiders optimistic about surpassing $50 million.
• The film has achieved the highest critical acclaim in the franchise's history, boasting a 96% certified fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 91% audience score, surpassing the original 2002 movie's 67%.
• This preview performance significantly outpaces previous Resident Evil previews, including the 2016 Final Chapter's $1 million, and also exceeds previews for comparable video game adaptations like Weapons, Scream 7, Mortal Kombat 2, and Sonic the Hedgehog 3.
• The movie is playing in premium large formats (PLFs) and IMAX, with a $75 million production budget, and is noted for its authentic adaptation of the Capcom video game series, differing from prior Milla Jovovich-led films.
• Preview numbers are sourced from distribution channels rather than the studio, so final figures should be considered preliminary.