28 Years Later: Danny Boyle’s Long-Awaited Horror Sequel Finally Arrives

4 January 2026 Film

The Return of a Cult Classic Franchise

28 Years Later is a 2025 post-apocalyptic coming-of-age horror film produced and directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland. After nearly two decades since the last instalment, the beloved horror franchise has returned to screens, reigniting audiences’ fascination with the rage virus that devastated Britain. The third film in the 28 Days Later film series, it stars Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jack O’Connell, Alfie Williams and Ralph Fiennes.

A Bold New Direction

The film tells the story of a boy living in a post-apocalyptic world who undertakes a hazardous journey with his ill mother in an effort to obtain medical treatment for her. Set nearly three decades after the initial outbreak, the film explores how survivors have adapted to life in quarantined Britain. The film was primarily shot using an iPhone 15 Pro Max, in addition to action cameras, drones, and other digital and film cameras. This innovative approach to cinematography has generated significant discussion among film enthusiasts and critics alike.

Box Office Success and Critical Reception

The film received generally positive reviews from critics and grossed $151 million worldwide against a budget of $60 million. 28 Years Later is projected to earn an opening weekend of $60 million worldwide. The strong performance has proven that audiences remain eager for intelligent horror cinema that challenges conventions. On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 89% of 393 critics’ reviews are positive.

The Future of the Trilogy

The film was shot back-to-back with its sequel, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, which was directed by Nia DaCosta and is due to be released in January 2026. Deadline’s latest report tabs the Sony sequel for a $20 million four-day opening over the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday weekend in the United States. With plans for a complete trilogy, the franchise’s future appears secure, offering horror fans much to anticipate in the coming years.