It may be 28 Years Later, but the long-gestating Danny Boyle and Alex Garland zombie apocalypse sequel looks worth the wait on the evidence of the first trailer.
Accompanied by the unsettling sound of a Taylor Holmes recording of Rudyard Kipling’s war poem Boots, the trailer features a post-apocalyptic world in which Aaron taylor-Johnson walks the green fields of England wielding a bow and arrow.
Nearly two decades after 28 Days later, the second movie appears to feature Cillian Murphy‘s Jim in zombie form, looming over Jodie Comer‘s character, after apparently being infected with the “Rage Virus.”
“Time didn’t heal anything,” is the tagline for the Sony Pictures movie, which premieres on June 20, 2025, and serves as the first part of a 28 Years Later trilogy. Franchise newcomers include Taylor-Johnson, Comer, Ralph Fiennes, Erin Kellyman, and Jack O’Connell.
Andrew MacDonald and Peter Rice serve as producers alongside Garland and Boyle. 28 Years Later is produced by Columbia Pictures in association with BFI, DNA Films, and Decibel Films.
What themes are explored in the original 28 Days Later that might be revisited in 28 Years Later?
Interview with Film Expert on the Anticipated Sequel, 28 Years Later
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today. The excitement surrounding the upcoming 28 Years Later film is palpable, especially given its long-awaited status as a sequel to 28 Days Later. What are your initial thoughts on the first trailer?
Expert: Thanks for having me! The first trailer indeed sets a haunting tone, and I believe it captures the essence of what made the original film a classic. The choice to use Taylor Holmes’s recording of Rudyard Kipling’s Boots is particularly striking—it adds a layer of somber reflection to the post-apocalyptic visuals we see, making the entire scene more immersive.
Time.news Editor: The imagery, especially with Aaron Taylor-Johnson walking through england’s green fields, is quite intriguing. How do you think this setting contrasts with conventional zombie apocalypse narratives?
Expert: That’s a crucial point. Typically, zombie narratives emphasize urban decay, chaos, and survival. By placing Aaron in lush greenfields, we see a juxtaposition—nature reclaiming a world devastated by the “Rage Virus.” This serves not only as a visual contrast but also as a thematic exploration of resilience versus despair. The serene environment raises questions about what remains after devastation.
Time.news Editor: Interesting perspective! The trailer suggests that Cillian Murphy’s character, Jim, is resurrected in zombie form. How does the idea of a beloved character returning in such a way affect audience expectations for the film?
Expert: Reviving Jim in this manner could serve as a powerful narrative device. It plays into the audience’s emotional investment from the original film—seeing a character they connected with return as a zombie is both shocking and poignant. This technique forces the audience to confront the themes of loss and conversion, further engaging them with the story’s depth.
Time.news Editor: The tagline “Time didn’t heal anything” certainly evokes curiosity. In your opinion, what implications does this have for the storyline and the broader franchise?
Expert: The tagline suggests that the wounds left by the virus and the circumstances surrounding it are far from healed, which opens up profound questions about trauma and the passage of time. This could hint at a narrative that explores the lingering effects of such catastrophic events on society as a whole and on individual characters. Given that 28 Years Later is set to be the first part of a trilogy, I’m expecting it to lay a strong foundation for not just horror, but an exploration of human nature amid chaos.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned that the film introduces new characters played by stars like Jodie Comer and Ralph Fiennes. How important is it for a sequel to balance returning characters with fresh faces?
expert: It’s essential for maintaining audience interest. While returning characters provide nostalgic connections, newcomers inject new energy and perspectives into the narrative. This mix can also serve to highlight the evolution of the world since the events of 28 Days Later, and how different characters respond to similar threats in different contexts. It broadens the narrative scope,which is critical for a trilogy.
Time.news Editor: As a film expert, what practical advice would you give potential viewers looking to prepare for the release of 28 Years Later?
Expert: I recommend revisiting 28 Days Later to refresh your memory of the original themes and characters. Additionally, exploring the cultural impact of the film on the zombie genre can provide deeper insight into what 28 years Later may aim to achieve. follow updates and discussions in film communities to gauge audience reactions and theories as the premiere date approaches.
time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights! With the film set to premiere on June 20, 2025, we look forward to seeing how Danny Boyle and Alex Garland develop this compelling world further.
Expert: Absolutely! It’s a great time to be a fan of the genre, and I’m eager to see how this narrative unfolds. Thank you for the conversation!