Sony's "Resident Evil" reboot, directed by Zach Cregger, has started its theatrical run with a strong showing at the box office. The film, which serves as a fresh and original reimagining of the popular horror video game series, has earned $8.8 million during its preview screenings. These previews, also known as advance screenings, are held before a film's official release to gauge audience interest and generate buzz. The movie is part of a broader trend of adapting well-known video games into films, a practice that has seen mixed results in recent years. However, "Resident Evil" has been given a new direction, aiming to appeal to both longtime fans of the franchise and newcomers to the series. The reboot is intended to be a standalone story rather than a direct adaptation of any specific game in the series. Sony has set ambitious goals for the film, hoping it will gross between $40 million and $50 million in the United States alone. This target reflects the studio's confidence in the film's potential and the enduring popularity of the "Resident Evil" brand. The success of the film could influence future decisions about sequels or additional projects within the franchise. The film's performance will be closely watched by industry analysts and fans alike. With a strong opening and a well-known name behind the direction, "Resident Evil" is positioned to make an impact in the horror genre. Its success could also signal a renewed interest in video game adaptations that focus on original storytelling while respecting the source material.