Anticipation is building for the release of “28 Years Later,” a sequel that looks to revive the iconic horror franchise. Following its announcement, the film has already generated significant excitement, as demonstrated by its impressive early ticket sales. Reports indicate that pre-sales for the movie have soared to $34 million within just 24 hours, making it the best pre-seller in the horror genre for 2025. This performance has outpaced notable releases like “Final Destination: Bloodlines” and “Nosferatu,” suggesting a strong market appetite for this continuation of the story.
The film follows the legacy of “28 Days Later,” a classic in the horror genre, and aims to draw both new audiences and fans of the original. It explores a post-apocalyptic UK ravaged by the Rage Virus, providing a fresh look at past themes while venturing into new narrative territory. The legacy-quel approach appears to be well-received, similar to the positive reactions to this year’s reboot of “Final Destination.”
Looking ahead, “28 Years Later” is set to premiere on June 20, 2025, followed by its sequel “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” scheduled for January 2026. With a production budget of $75 million, the film is positioned for potential profitability, even amidst a competitive box office landscape that includes major releases like “How to Train Your Dragon” and “Jurassic World Rebirth.”
This successful start may be a good omen for the franchise’s future, with hopes that audience enthusiasm will lead to a steady stream of box office revenue. As the horror genre continues to thrive, fans can also catch the original film, “28 Days Later,” currently available for streaming on Pluto TV, allowing newcomers to familiarize themselves with its chilling premise before the new installment arrives.