Excitement is soaring for Danny Boyle’s upcoming film, 28 Years Later, a sequel to the iconic 28 Days Later. The newly released trailer teases a post-apocalyptic world where survivors navigate life under quarantine after a rage virus outbreak. Featuring a cast that includes Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Cillian Murphy, the film promises thrilling visuals and an intriguing plot involving a perilous journey across a fortified bridge. This highly anticipated entry marks the start of a planned trilogy, with the first film debuting in theaters on June 18.
Excitement Builds for 28 Years Later
What if the most thrilling blockbuster of 2025 originates from the UK? After more than two decades since the groundbreaking films 28 Days Later and its sequel 28 Weeks Later, visionary director Danny Boyle is making a triumphant return with 28 Years Later. The highly anticipated trailer dropped this Tuesday morning, reigniting excitement among fans. The original film, released at the turn of the millennium, provided a fresh perspective on the zombie genre, showcasing a world where a laboratory virus unleashed chaos, transforming the majority of the population into flesh-eating hordes. Was this a precursor to real-life events?
The Revival of the Zombie Genre
The first film not only revived the zombie genre but also inspired a plethora of projects, ranging from the acclaimed TV series The Walking Dead to the popular video game The Last of Us, which further evolved into a successful television adaptation. Comedic gems like Shaun of The Dead also emerged from this revitalized genre. After years of speculation about a third installment, Danny Boyle has rejoined forces with screenwriter Alex Garland, who has transitioned into directing with hits like Ex-Machina, Men, and the recent Civil War. Here’s a sneak peek at the official synopsis:
“Nearly three decades have passed since the rage virus escaped from a biological weapons lab. Now, surviving humans are isolated under stringent quarantine, creating unique ways to coexist with the infected. One survivor community resides on a small island linked to the mainland by a heavily fortified bridge. When a member of this group embarks on a mission into the mainland’s treacherous depths, they uncover secrets, marvels, and monstrosities that have transformed both the infected and fellow survivors.”
The trailer highlights the island community, showcasing its members and their distinct roles. The plot thickens when Jamie, played by Aaron Taylor-Johnson, must venture across the bridge with a young boy portrayed by newcomer Alfie Williams. What lies ahead for them?
The gripping visuals, devoid of dialogue but underscored by an eerie voice-over and a countdown, introduce Jodie Comer as a mother with a newborn, a bloodied Ralph Fiennes, soldiers facing terrifying mutant creatures, and a zombie that bears an uncanny resemblance to Cillian Murphy, the beloved protagonist from the original film.
Having won an Oscar last spring for his role in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, Cillian Murphy, who first gained fame from 28 Days Later, is confirmed to be part of the cast. Will Danny Boyle and Alex Garland subject his character to a tragic fate? Sony Pictures has yet to comment on the matter.
It’s important to note that 28 Years Later is just the beginning of an exciting trilogy planned by this dynamic duo. The second installment has already been filmed, directed by Nikka Costa (Candyman). Mark your calendars as the first film is set to hit French theaters on June 18. Until then, the fate of Cillian Murphy’s character remains a tantalizing mystery!