The infected will return to the big screen in 28 Years Later. Following the events of 28 Days Later (2002) and 28 Weeks Later (2017), the latest chapter in the terrifying, apocalyptic horror series will be sprinting onto the big screen in the not-too-distant future. Here's what we know so far.
What happened in 28 Days Later and 28 Weeks Later?
28 Days Later centered on bike courier Jim (played by Oppenheimer Oscar-winner Cillian Murphy). He woke up in the hospital to discover that Britain had been devastated by the rage virus, an infection stemming from chimpanzee experiments that transform ordinary citizens into red-eyed, bloodthirsty maniacs.
Jim and several other survivors including Selena (Naomie Harris) left London to find a haven. Sequel 28 Weeks Later focused on a new group of characters looking to start afresh in London under the protection of the US military after the rage virus had apparently subsided. However, it soon resurfaced in a far more aggressive form.
What is the story of 28 Years Later?
Unknown at this stage. The franchise has progressed incrementally from weeks to months to years, so we can surely expect a truly post-apocalyptic world ravaged by the infected.
The first two movies concentrated on the outbreak in the UK, and the end of 28 Weeks Later showed us that the rage virus had finally reached Paris. Will 28 Years Later expand the global scope of this blood-curdling saga?
The official synopsis is as follows: 'It’s been almost three decades since the rage virus escaped a biological weapons laboratory, and now, still in a ruthlessly enforced quarantine, some have found ways to exist amidst the infected.
'One such group of survivors lives on a small island connected to the mainland by a single, heavily-defended causeway. When one of the group leaves the island on a mission into the dark heart of the mainland, he discovers secrets, wonders and horrors that have mutated not only the infected but other survivors as well.'
Who stars in 28 Years Later?
It has been confirmed (via Deadline) that Nosferatu and Kraven the Hunter star (and a potential new candidate for James Bond) Aaron Taylor-Johnson has been cast in the film. He will be joined by The Last Duel's Jodie Comer and the renowned Ralph Fiennes (Schindler's List; The English Patient).
UPDATE: It's been confirmed that Back to Black star Jack O'Connell will be appearing in 28 Years Later.
Who is directing 28 Years Later?
Danny Boyle is directing 28 Years Later. It will be his first film in the franchise since the 2002 original – he executive produced 28 Weeks Later while Juan Carlos Fresnadillo directed it.
Boyle shot 28 Years Later on a series of modified iPhone 15's.
Who is writing the script for 28 Years Later?
Alex Garland will write the script for 28 Years Later. He and Boyle collaborated on 28 Days Later and also on the sci-fi drama Sunshine (2007). Garland's latest film Civil War is currently on release at Cineworld.
Is Cillian Murphy in 28 Years Later?
Yes, Cillian Murphy is returning as Jim, although there's some controversy over his alleged appearance in the trailer. Read our 28 Years Later trailer breakdown to find out more.
Is 28 Years Later the first part of a new trilogy?
Yes, 28 Years Later will be followed by two more movies. Deadline broke the news that Candyman and The Marvels director Nia DaCosta is being tapped to direct the second film named 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple.
Is there a poster for 28 Years Later?
Check out the poster for 28 Years Later.
When is 28 Years Later due for release?
28 Years Later will be released on June 20th, 2025.
When is the 28 Years Later sequel going to be released?
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple is due to be released on January 16th, 2026, confirms Variety. The film was shot back to back with 28 Years Later and shares the same principal cast.
Alex Garland is writing the script and Danny Boyle is executive producing.
Where can we watch the trailer for 28 Years Later?
Watch the trailer below and then read our 28 Years Later trailer breakdown.