The long-awaited sequel to 28 Days Later, titled 28 Years Later, has finally dropped its first trailer, and it’s shaping up to be a thrilling addition to the zombie apocalypse franchise. The teaser promises a post-apocalyptic world filled with tension and terror, highlighted by the haunting soundtrack of a Taylor Holmes recording of Rudyard Kipling’s war poem “Boots.”
In the trailer, we see Aaron Taylor-Johnson navigating the desolate green fields of England, armed with a bow and arrow, a stark image of survival in a world ravaged by the “Rage Virus.” However, it’s the chilling presence of Cillian Murphy’s character, Jim, that stands out. Now zombified, Jim looms over Jodie Comer’s character, suggesting that Murphy’s role in this sequel is more limited, despite his executive producer credit. Notably, Murphy did not appear in the 2007 sequel 28 Weeks Later.
The movie’s tagline, “Time didn’t heal anything,” hints at the continuing horrors of the viral outbreak, and with the film set to premiere on June 20, it’s clear that the franchise’s eerie atmosphere remains intact. Murphy’s involvement as an executive producer suggests he’s still a key figure in the project, though his onscreen role appears minimal.
The sequel, which is the first installment of a 28 Years Later trilogy, introduces several new faces, including Peaky Blinders star Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ralph Fiennes, Erin Kellyman, and Jack O’Connell. Danny Boyle and Alex Garland, who co-created the franchise, return to direct and produce alongside Andrew MacDonald and Peter Rice. The film is produced by Columbia Pictures in association with BFI, DNA Films, and Decibel Films.
With its haunting visuals and eerie atmosphere, 28 Years Later is setting up to be a chilling continuation of the post-apocalyptic saga. Fans of the original are sure to find this new chapter worth the wait.
