Movie theater operators are hoping the new Resident Evil film will help jumpstart the early fall movie season. The film, a horror-comedy reboot of the popular zombie-themed franchise, is expected to open with between $40 million and $50 million in ticket sales in the United States alone. This would make it one of the bigger box office openings of the year, especially for a film in the horror genre, which often sees lower turnout compared to action or family films. The movie, produced by Sony Pictures, brings a fresh take on the Resident Evil universe, which originally gained fame through a series of video games and earlier film adaptations. This version aims to blend humor with the classic horror elements that fans have come to expect, potentially attracting both longtime fans and new audiences. The film’s release comes at a time when movie theaters are looking for hits to draw audiences back after a period of slower attendance. Early reviews of the film have been mostly positive, with critics praising its entertainment value and the performances of its lead actors. Word-of-mouth from those who have seen the film has also been strong, helping to build anticipation before its official release. This kind of buzz is crucial for box office success, especially for films that rely on audience recommendations to fill seats. Tracking services and industry analysts have been closely watching the film’s performance, as it could signal a trend of stronger horror movie releases in the coming months. If Resident Evil meets or exceeds expectations, it could encourage studios to invest more in the genre, which has seen a resurgence in recent years. For now, moviegoers are being encouraged to see the film, with many theaters offering special promotions to boost turnout.