28 Years Later: The Bone Temple Brings Fresh Horror to the Iconic Franchise

Introduction: A Highly Anticipated Sequel

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple is a 2026 post-apocalyptic horror film directed by Nia DaCosta and written by Alex Garland, shot back-to-back with its predecessor 28 Years Later (2025), and serves as the fourth installment overall in the 28 Days Later film series. The film’s significance lies in its continuation of one of horror cinema’s most beloved franchises, bringing fresh directorial vision whilst maintaining the atmospheric tension that made the original films iconic. 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple premieres in the U.K. on January 14 and then in the U.S. on January 16.

Critical Acclaim and Star-Studded Cast

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple currently sits at 97% on Rotten Tomatoes based on 57 reviews. This impressive reception demonstrates the film’s quality and DaCosta’s successful return to horror. Ralph Fiennes, Jack O’Connell, and Alfie Williams return from 28 Years Later, with Fiennes as Dr. Ian Kelson, a former GP dedicated to memorialising the victims of the epidemic, and O’Connell as Sir Lord Jimmy Crystal, the psychopathic leader of “the Jimmys”. Cillian Murphy reprises his role as Jim, a former bicycle courier and survivor of the original outbreak, with his appearance in The Bone Temple’s ending serving as his character’s reintroduction.

What Makes This Sequel Stand Out

Building on ideas from the final act of the very first 28 Days Later, there’s no violence in The Bone Temple more grotesque or abhorrent than what nominal non-zombies do to their fellow humans. The film does such a good job at standing alone and expanding the world of 28 Years Later, while also terrifying and entertaining, it would be totally fine if that sequel never happened.

Conclusion: A Worthy Addition to Horror Cinema

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple represents more than just another franchise instalment—it’s a testament to thoughtful horror filmmaking that prioritises character development and social commentary alongside visceral scares. A sequel to The Bone Temple is in development. For horror enthusiasts and franchise fans alike, this film delivers an essential cinematic experience that honours its predecessors whilst carving its own terrifying path forward.