Introduction
The world of film has been teeming with zombie movies, a popular subgenre that thrived in the early 1900s and still captivates audiences today. Among them is the highly acclaimed 28 Days Later, which directed by renowned filmmaker Danny Boyle and released in 2002. This movie sparked interest in the genre once again, leading to many successful sequels and adaptations of works from other mediums like books, television shows, comics, and video games. Now, with Sony’s recent release of a new trailer for “28 Years Later,” fans of Boyle’s work are eagerly awaiting this thrilling addition to his zombie-virus dystopian horror series.
Background
The first film in the trilogy, titled simply “28 Days Later” (or more commonly known as “28LD”), follows a highly contagious virus called the Rage Virus that is accidentally released from a lab in Cambridge, England. The Rage Virus leads to an epidemic where infected individuals become violent monsters who attack uninfected people – hence, fast zombies.
In this first film, we are introduced to bicycle courier Jim (played by Cillian Murphy), who awakens 28 days after being comatose due to the virus’ initial outbreak. He witnesses a post-apocalyptic London nearly empty of survivors, with only few people fleeing from the infected horde. The story unfolds as Jim joins these remaining survivors in their quest for safety.
The sequel film, “28 Weeks Later,” was released in 2007 and featured new characters living on the outskirts of London after Britain started rebuilding following the first outbreak. NATO soldiers were called upon to help with reestablishing order. However, an infection occurs when a careless person is bit by one of the infected individuals, leading to another massive spread of the virus.
Development Hell for “28 Months Later”
Boyle had plans for a third film in the series as early as 2007, called “28 Months Later,” but it found itself stuck in development hell for over a decade before finally being given the green light in January of 2024. The title was later changed to “28 Years Later” due to how much time had passed since the original outbreak. Alex Garland, who wrote the first film and its sequel, returns as screenwriter for this third installment.
Plot Details Revealed
The official synopsis describes a world where it has been almost three decades since the Rage Virus escaped from a biological weapons laboratory. Britain’s efforts to rebuild have led some survivors to find new ways of life amidst the infected population while living on small islands with heavily defended causeways connected to mainland cities. The film follows one survivor who leaves his island for a mission into the heart of the devastated landmass, where he discovers secrets, wonders, and horrors that have mutated not only the infected but other survivors as well.
Casting
The cast includes Jodie Comer as Isla, who lives with her husband Jamie (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) and their son Spike (Alfie Williams) on the aforementioned island. Dr. Kelson will be played by Ralph Fiennes, a survivor of the original outbreak; cult leader Sir Jimmy Crystal is portrayed by Jack O’Connell; Swedish NATO soldier Erik Sundqvist is brought to life by Edvin Ryding; and Erin Kellyman plays Lady Ink. The role of Emma Laird remains undisclosed at this time.
Conclusion
With a new trailer for “28 Years Later” released, fans can expect another thrilling addition to Danny Boyle’s zombie-virus dystopian horror series. Set against the backdrop of a world ravaged by an outbreak that has lasted almost three decades, it promises nonstop action and suspense as surviving groups face ever-evolving threats from both the infected and new mutations. With its impressive cast and skilled director at the helm, fans are undoubtedly excited to watch this highly anticipated movie when it hits theaters soon.
