‘Resident Evil’ Reboot Writer Zach Cregger Urged to Study jenna Ortega’s Approach to Horror
Los Angeles, California – September 13, 2025 – As Zach Cregger prepares to helm the upcoming Resident Evil reboot film, a growing chorus of fans are suggesting he draw inspiration from Jenna Ortega’s critically acclaimed performance in Scream VI and Wednesday. The 23-year-old actress has rapidly become a modern scream queen, lauded for her grounded, emotionally resonant portrayals of characters facing terrifying circumstances – a quality many believe is crucial for a successful Resident Evil adaptation.
The Resident Evil franchise, spanning video games, novels, and previous film adaptations, demands a delicate balance between action, suspense, and genuine horror. previous attempts have frequently enough leaned heavily into action, sometimes at the expense of the psychological terror that defines the source material. Fans argue that Ortega’s ability to convey vulnerability and resilience amidst chaos,as demonstrated in her roles,offers a blueprint for Cregger to create a Resident Evil protagonist who feels both relatable and capable. Cregger, known for his work in comedy and horror with films like Barbarian, co-wrote the reboot with Shay Hatten. The success of the film hinges on capturing the franchise’s core atmosphere, and many believe Ortega’s recent work provides a valuable case study.
Ortega’s performance in Scream VI (2023) specifically has been cited as a model for navigating the pressures of a legacy horror franchise. Her portrayal of Tara Carpenter showcased a character grappling with trauma while actively fighting for survival, a dynamic that resonates with the struggles of many Resident Evil protagonists. Similarly, her role as Wednesday Addams in the Netflix series Wednesday (2022-present) demonstrated a capacity for portraying stoicism and dark humor, qualities that could be effectively applied to characters within the Resident evil universe.
The Resident Evil reboot is currently in development,with no confirmed release date. The film’s success will depend on its ability to satisfy both longtime fans of the franchise and a broader audience seeking a genuinely frightening and engaging horror experience.
