“28 Years Later,” the third installment in the acclaimed post-apocalyptic horror series directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland, is slated for release on June 20, 2025.
This film arrives 23 years after the original “28 Days Later” (2002) and its sequel “28 Weeks Later” (2007), both of which redefined the zombie genre with their intense storytelling and innovative filmmaking.
The production of “28 Years Later” was greenlit with a substantial budget of $75 million, reflecting the filmmakers’ commitment to delivering a high-quality cinematic experience.
A notable aspect of the production is the innovative use of technology; director Danny Boyle and cinematographer Anthony Dod Mantle chose to shoot the film using adapted iPhone 15s. This decision aligns with their history of pioneering digital filmmaking techniques, harking back to their use of the Canon XL1 for the original film.
The narrative is set 28 years after the initial outbreak of the Rage Virus, focusing on survivors who have adapted to life amidst the infected. A central group resides on Lindisfarne, a tidal island in Northumberland, connected to the mainland by a heavily fortified causeway. The plot intensifies when a father and his son venture from the safety of the island into the mainland’s depths, unveiling a series of secrets, wonders, and horrors that shed light on the transformed world and the enduring human spirit.
The film boasts a stellar ensemble cast, including Jodie Comer as Isla, a pregnant woman living with her husband and son on Lindisfarne; Aaron Taylor-Johnson as Jamie, Isla’s husband and a scavenger navigating the perils of the post-apocalyptic landscape; Ralph Fiennes as Dr. Kelson, a survivor whose experiences add depth to the narrative; and Jack O’Connell as Sir Jimmy Crystal, a leader of a cult with a shadowy past. Notably, Cillian Murphy, who portrayed Jim in the original film, serves as an executive producer for this installment. While initial reports suggested he might reprise his role, it has been confirmed that he will not appear in this film, though his involvement behind the scenes remains significant.
Anticipation for “28 Years Later” has been building steadily. The release of the first trailer on December 10, 2024, featuring a recitation of Rudyard Kipling’s 1903 poem “Boots” by actor Taylor Holmes, garnered significant attention, amassing over 10 million views within 48 hours. This response underscores the high level of interest in the film.
The trailer hints at evolving horrors and surviving communities, suggesting that the film will explore themes of survival, humanity, and the passage of time in a world irrevocably altered by a viral apocalypse.
“28 Years Later” is not just a continuation of a beloved franchise but also a bold experiment in filmmaking technology and narrative depth. With its substantial budget, innovative production techniques, and compelling storyline, the film is poised to make a significant impact upon its release, offering both fans and newcomers a fresh perspective on the enduring appeal of the zombie genre.
