In 2025, Danny Boyle will continue his horror saga that began 23 years earlier with “28 Days Later” with “28 Years Later”. Now finally the frist trailer that takes us back to post-apocalyptic Great Britain. See for yourself:
After a couple of armed animal rights activists freed monkeys from a London laboratory,a deadly virus emerged that quickly deserted the city. This plague transformed people into zombie-like creatures and was the basis for the atmospheric horror thriller “28 days Later”. In 2002, cult director Danny Boyle presented an atmospheric horror thriller that became one of the most famous zombie films of all time (even if the infected people at the center of the plot are not zombies, at least in the classic sense).
Five years later, the sequel “28 Weeks Later”, which Boyle no longer directed, followed and was also received positively. As then, there have been repeated plans for another sequel with the logical title “28 Years Later”. Now we can also get our first look at what post-apocalyptic Britain looks like 28 years after the plague breaks out in the sequel. Because now comes the first trailer for “28 Years Later,” which we’ve embedded for you above.
Did you notice these details in the trailer?
I don’t know if you noticed anything while watching the clip. If not, briefly tell us an captivating fact about him: The zombie apocalypse was filmed entirely with iPhones (iPhone 15). Of course, Boyle is not the first filmmaker to work with such methods. Directors like Sean Baker (“Tangerine LA”) and steven Soderbergh (“Unsane”) have done it in the past. But With a budget of $75 million, “28 Years Later” is now the most expensive film produced this way.
Compared to other things needed for a film like this, the iPhones problably aren’t the most expensive thing on the bill. But at least the team has not been spared: Oscar winner Cillian Murphy will return - but it is not yet clear how big his role will be. The trailer may have already revealed the tragic fate of Jim, who he played. He is supported by “Killing Eve” star Jodie Comer, great actor Ralph Fiennes (“Schindler’s List”), aaron Taylor-Johnson (“Kick-Ass”) and Jack O’Connell (most recently in the Amy Winehouse biopic ”back to see Black).
O’connell will also have a special role, as “28 Years Later” is planned as the beginning of a final trilogy with “Ex Machina” and “Civil War” maker Alex Garland. The first movie is coming 19 June 2025 debut in German cinemas. The second part, “28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple”, has already been filmed and could appear a year later.
That’s what “28 Years Later” is all about.
As the title suggests, the horrific epidemic that spawned “28 Days Later” has been going on for 28 years. Britain is overrun by angry infected people, although there are a few small uninfected communities. The story now follows a boy who seeks a doctor to save his dying mother. The son guides his mother through the north of England, where infected people are also hiding. Eventually he finds a doctor who at first seems strange and strange, but is actually dedicated to good things.
Incidentally speaking: if zombie horror movies are exactly your thing, we have an interesting fact for you in the following article.
Recommended by Quentin Tarantino and confiscated for years, this zombie horror was featured in a Marvel blockbuster!
What are the main themes explored in Danny Boyle’s “28 Days Later” that might influence ”28 Years Later”?
Interview: A Timeless Terror – Revisiting Danny Boyle’s Horror legacy
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have a special guest, Dr. Emily North, a film scholar and expert in contemporary horror cinema. With the declaration that danny boyle is set to continue his iconic horror saga with “28 Years Later” in 2025, Emily, we’re thrilled to have you with us to discuss the impact of this franchise. What were your initial thoughts when you heard about the sequel?
Dr. Emily North: Thank you for having me! I have to say, I was elated as a fan of both Danny Boyle and the original films. “28 Days Later” was groundbreaking in its depiction of post-apocalyptic horror and has had a lasting influence on the genre. The idea of revisiting that universe after all these years is exciting and raises so many fascinating questions about how the world has evolved since we last saw it.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely! “28 Days Later” is frequently enough credited with reinvigorating the zombie genre. In what ways do you think “28 Years Later” can capture the zeitgeist of today’s audience, just as the original did in 2002?
Dr. Emily North: That’s a great question. The original film resonated with the fears of its time, especially around issues such as pandemics and social breakdown. In 2025, we might potentially be facing different but equally compelling concerns—climate change, global unrest, or even the impacts of technology on society. Boyle has a knack for weaving social commentary into his narratives, so I would expect “28 Years Later” to reflect the anxieties of our current landscape while still delivering the chilling thrills the franchise is known for.
Time.news Editor: What aspects of horror do you think Boyle excels at that could be explored in this new film?
Dr.Emily North: Boyle has a unique ability to blend visceral horror with emotional depth. In “28 Days Later,” he tapped into human relationships amidst chaos, showcasing the fragility of humanity. I anticipate that “28 Years Later” will continue this exploration—how the characters cope with long-standing trauma and the erosion of societal norms will be a central theme.Plus, I wouldn’t be surprised if he incorporates innovative visual techniques and sound design, which have become crucial in modern horror filmmaking.
Time.news Editor: Given that it has been over two decades since the last entry, what do you see as critical challenges for the filmmakers as they bring this story to life?
Dr. Emily North: One challenge will be balancing nostalgia with innovation. Long-time fans will have expectations, while new audiences will need to be engaged without prior context. Developing relatable characters within a world that has seemingly changed dramatically can also be tricky. The filmmakers must ensure the story feels fresh while respecting the original’s legacy. This duality could make or break the film.
Time.news editor: Speaking of legacy, how do you think “28 Years Later” can connect with the themes established in the earlier films while still standing on its own?
Dr. Emily North: I believe there will need to be callbacks to original characters or themes, perhaps through the experiences of new characters who have grown up in the shadow of the events from the first two films. Exploring how society has changed—whether for better or worse—can serve as a robust narrative backbone. The new film can mirror the original’s spirit while addressing contemporary realities, ultimately highlighting the resilience and adaptability of humanity in the face of horror.
Time.news Editor: Insightful points! As a fan, I can’t wait to see how Boyle delivers this latest installment. Any final thoughts about what you hope to see in “28 Years Later”?
Dr. Emily North: I hope it captures the same raw energy and urgency that made “28 Days Later” so compelling while pushing the boundaries of horror storytelling. Engaging with social issues and creating complex characters will be vital.And, of course, a few iconic, spine-chilling moments wouldn’t hurt either!
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. North, for sharing your insights! We’re all eagerly anticipating what Danny boyle has in store for us in “28 Years Later.” It’s clear that this continuation of the saga could not only pay homage to its predecessors but also become a statement piece for a new generation.
Dr. Emily North: Thank you for the conversation! I can’t wait to see how it unfolds—here’s to many more sleepless nights ahead!