Hollywood stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Ralph Fiennes or popular actress Jodie Comer appear in the first trailer for the sequel to the post-apocalyptic zombie saga 28 years later. Like the original 2002 film, it was directed by Oscar-winning director Danny Boyle. Alex Garland, the sci-fi author of Sunshine or Ex Machina, rewrote the script.
Czech cinemas will start showing the film 28 years later on June 19, 2025. | Video: Falcon
The new movie will be released in Czech cinemas on June 19. On Tuesday, Columbia Pictures released the first trailer.
According to the synopsis, it takes place nearly three decades after a virus escaped from a biological weapons lab, decimating the world and leading to a permanent, ruthlessly enforced quarantine.”A small group of survivors lives on an island connected to the mainland by a single strongly defended dam. But one member leaves the island and embarks on a mission into the dark heart of the mainland,” says the annotation.
According to Variety.com, the first installment’s star Cillian Murphy, who was speculated to reprise his role as courier Jim, is surprisingly absent from the trailer. After watching the preview, some speculate whether he turned into a zombie, but the authors did not want to comment on the server’s request.
The first part of the series from 2002, called 28 Days Later, showed the release of a deadly virus that wipes out almost all of London and destroys society. The film, directed by Danny Boyle, was a success with critics and audiences, grossing over $82 million worldwide on a budget of eight million dollars.
Five years later, a slightly more lukewarmly received sequel, 28 Weeks Later, was followed by a different director and writing team. Commercially, it had a response again, the picture cost 15 million dollars and took 65 million.
After almost two decades, columbia Pictures has now decided to revive the brand. In addition to the upcoming third part, which will be shown in theaters in June 2025 and which was shot entirely by cameraman Anthony Dod Mantle on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, a fourth film is already being made. Alex Garland once again wrote the script, but Nia DaCosta, who signed last year’s Marvels superhero film, will direct instead of Danny Boyle, The Hollywood Reporter website adds. If successful, a fifth part should also follow, which woudl conclude a new trilogy from this world.
What themes are explored in the film “28 Years Later” and how do they relate to current global issues?
Time.news Interview: Insights on the Upcoming Film ”28 Years Later”
Editor: thank you for joining us today! With the release of the first trailer for “28 Years Later,” anticipation is mounting. Can you tell us about the context of this sequel within the broader zombie genre?
Expert: Absolutely! The original film, “28 Days Later,” is a cornerstone of the post-apocalyptic genre. Directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland, it introduced gripping themes of survival, social collapse, and the implications of viral outbreaks.Now, with “28 Years Later,” set to release in Czech cinemas on June 19, 2025, it’s intriguing to see how filmmakers recreate that tension nearly three decades later.
Editor: The film has an engaging premise. Can you elaborate on the storyline and its relevance to contemporary issues?
Expert: The synopsis indicates a world ravaged by a virus from a biological weapons lab, leading to a strict quarantine. The narrative centers around survivors living on a fortified island, which serves as a metaphor for isolation and societal division. In today’s context,this reflects global issues like pandemics and the consequences of geopolitical actions regarding bioethics. It’s both timely and thought-provoking.
Editor: Engaging! I noticed the absence of Cillian Murphy in the trailer, which has sparked speculation. What are your thoughts on this?
Expert: Cillian Murphy’s absence raises questions about continuity in the franchise. Fans are speculating that his character, Jim, could have faced a grim fate, possibly turning into a zombie. this creates a narrative tension that’s vital for horror films. Moreover, it showcases how new characters like those portrayed by Aaron taylor-Johnson and Ralph Fiennes might shift the focus in a sequel intended to refresh the brand.
Editor: Speaking of the cast, how do you think the involvement of Danny Boyle and Alex Garland as director and writer influences the film’s potential success?
Expert: Their return signals a commitment to maintaining the original film’s integrity while introducing fresh ideas. Boyle’s style combined with Garland’s scriptwriting could result in an emotionally charged storyline that resonates with both new audiences and longtime fans. Moreover, the innovative decision to shoot this installment entirely on the iPhone 15 pro max showcases an adaptation of technology within filmmaking, possibly attracting tech-savvy viewers.
Editor: There’s talk of a fourth film already in the works and even a fifth to conclude a new trilogy. How does this fit into the current entertainment landscape?
Expert: Reviving classic franchises has become a popular trend in Hollywood. With films like “28 Years Later,” there’s an chance to explore societal issues through the allegorical lens of horror. If accomplished,this trilogy could cater to both nostalgia and a new audience,creating a lasting legacy. This aligns with industry insights pointing to a resurgence in demand for high-concept genre films.
editor: As a final thought, what advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers looking to enter the horror genre, particularly in the context of reviving older franchises?
Expert: My advice would be to analyze the original material critically—understand its core themes and what made it resonate with audiences.then, adapt it through a contemporary lens, infusing new elements without losing the essence. Additionally, consider innovative storytelling methods; as seen with “28 Years Later,” technology can enhance the narrative. Originality, genuine passion for the genre, and respecting the source material are key to developing compelling horror films today.
Editor: Thank you for your insights! this has been a fascinating discussion, especially regarding the cultural implications and filmmaking strategies in “28 Years Later.” We look forward to its release!