Danny Boyle and Alex Garland are set to reunite for the highly anticipated release of “28 Years Later,” scheduled for June 20, 2025, under Sony Pictures. This follows their successful collaboration on the post-apocalyptic horror franchise, which began with “28 Days Later” in 2002 and continued with “28 Weeks Later” in 2007. After years of speculation since 2015 regarding a potential third installment, this new project has finally taken form, with reports indicating that Boyle and Garland are pitching an entire trilogy.
The recently released trailer provides a glimpse into this chilling narrative, featuring unsettling imagery accompanied by a recitation of Rudyard Kipling’s poem “Boots.” The apparent resurgence of the zombie threat is evident, showcasing fearful children, Aaron Taylor-Johnson wielding a bow and arrow, and a strikingly eerie figure resembling Cillian Murphy. Although specifics remain vague, an official synopsis offers insight into the plot: nearly three decades after the outbreak of a deadly “rage virus,” a group of survivors on an isolated island confronts the horrors of the mainland while navigating a “ruthlessly enforced” quarantine.
The franchise has evolved since its inception, with the first film centering on Cillian Murphy’s character, who awakes to a world overrun by the infected. The sequel, “28 Weeks Later,” depicted a different set of survivors, emphasizing the ongoing struggle against the virus.
The cast for “28 Years Later” includes Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Ralph Fiennes, among others, with newcomers Alfie Williams and Jack O’Connell also playing significant roles. While Cillian Murphy’s official involvement has yet to be confirmed, Sony’s Tom Rothman hinted that he would return in a “surprising way,” suggesting an intriguing twist to his character’s fate.
Moreover, it has been confirmed that Boyle is directing the first film, while Nia DaCosta, known for her work on “Candyman,” will take the helm for the sequel. It appears that the trilogy could begin with a fresh take on the themes established in the original films, paving the way for deeper explorations of survival and humanity in the face of adversity.
With its release date set, fans of the franchise can look forward to a blend of nostalgia and innovation in “28 Years Later,” which promises to capture the essence of what made its predecessors so impactful while also forging new ground in storytelling. This exciting continuation of the story allows for the exploration of both the enduring threat of the “rage virus” and the resilience of humanity, hinting at new adventures that await survivors in this haunting universe.