After a wait of over 6,000 days since the last installment, the franchise continues with the upcoming release of “28 Years Later.” Sony Pictures has just unveiled the first trailer for this eagerly awaited sequel to the iconic horror movies “28 Days Later” and “28 Weeks Later.”
The trailer opens with a chilling scene featuring children watching “Teletubbies,” interrupted by a woman who urgently drops off another child, instructing them to remain silent. As the program plays, the backdrop reveals a horrifying world with scenes of zombie turmoil, highlighted by blood splattering onto the screen.
Viewers are then introduced to a mysterious, gated island community where survivors of the apocalypse are trying to live. The trailer hints at dark secrets lurking within this sheltered existence, showcasing a towering stack of skulls amid pillars of bones. The film raises the question, “What will humanity become?”
Additionally, there’s speculation about the return of Cillian Murphy, hinted at in a quick shot of a skinny zombie resembling the actor. Tom Rothman, chairman of Sony Motion Pictures Group, mentioned that Murphy would return in an unexpected way that contributes to the film’s narrative.
“28 Years Later” will feature an impressive cast including Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jack O’Connell, Alfie Williams, and Ralph Fiennes. Although the cast list does not currently include Murphy, he holds the role of executive producer for the film.
While many might categorize the films in the zombie genre, it’s important to note that the infected individuals are affected by a “rage virus,” which significantly differentiates them from traditional slow-moving zombies. The original film was groundbreaking for its depiction of fast-running infected.
The plot unfolds nearly three decades after the rage virus outbreak, depicting a world still under strict quarantine, where survivors have carved out a precarious existence. A critical mission undertaken by one of the island residents into the treacherous mainland reveals shocking secrets and transformations for both the infected and fellow survivors.
Mark your calendars for June 20, when “28 Years Later” will hit theaters. The creative force behind the original film returns, with Danny Boyle directing and Alex Garland writing the screenplay. This sequel is designed to initiate a new trilogy, with a follow-up installment, “28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple,” already announced and set to be helmed by Nia DaCosta, known for her work on “Candyman.”
This development demonstrates the enduring appeal of the franchise, with anticipation building among fans for a contemporary take on its narrative while preserving the essence that made the original films iconic. The reunion of key creative players suggests that “28 Years Later” has the potential to engross a new generation of viewers while building on the legacy of its predecessors.