Sony Reduced Resident Evil Theatrical Run

The film lost 600 screens following its initial September release.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Horror

Graphic editorial illustration with a fragmented film reel and beams of light in red and black, representing film industry distribution trends. — Sony has reduced the theatrical release of its latest Resident Evil film by 600 screens, despite the title becoming the franchise's highest-grossing entry. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Is it a good time for theaters to prioritize screening more horror films?

Sony has scaled back the theatrical presence of its Resident Evil film, removing the title from 600 locations across the United States. The movie is now playing in 3,085 theaters, down from its initial run of 3,684.

Why it matters

The reduction in theater count comes despite the film maintaining a strong financial trajectory, having already become the highest-grossing entry in the long-running franchise.

The production budget for the film is $75 million, with a current domestic total gross of $140.1 million. The movie earned $8.6 million in its most recent domestic weekend.

The players

Sony

Sony is a multinational conglomerate and major entertainment studio responsible for the production and distribution of the Resident Evil film franchise.

The details

The latest Resident Evil installment has now reached a global box office total of $323.1 million, surpassing the previous record held by Resident Evil: The Final Chapter. Industry projections suggest the title could potentially reach a $500 million global finish as it concludes its primary theatrical window.

September 18, 2026: The film held its initial theatrical release in the United States.
October 11, 2026: The film's theatrical count decreased to 3,085 locations.

Industry Dynamics

This performance confirms the enduring commercial viability of the Resident Evil brand within the competitive landscape of horror franchises. The success marks a significant shift in the series' historical profitability compared to previous franchise entries.

Viewers looking to catch the film in theaters should check local listings as the number of available screens has decreased by 600. Tickets remain available at the remaining 3,085 locations nationwide.

The takeaway

The film has cemented its status as the most successful entry in the franchise by surpassing previous global revenue records. Fans interested in seeing the movie should plan to visit participating theaters sooner rather than later as the distribution window narrows.