It’s been over two decades since Danny Boyle and Alex Garland’s genre-redefining “28 Days Later” resurrected the tired zombie genre, kicking off one of the bleakest and most influential horror sagas of the 21st century. Now, the franchise pivots once more with “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple,” directed by Nia DaCosta (“Candyland,” “The Marvels“).
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The new installment makes some bold choices. Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Jodie Comer, central to the previous film, aren’t credited here. Instead, the focus shifts to their child, Spike, played by newcomer Alfie Williams. The trailer teases his clash with the chilling Jimmy Crystal (played by Jack O’Connell), while Ralph Fiennes looms large as Dr. Kelson, a figure whose allegiances are murky at best.
DaCosta seems to be steering the series into new thematic territory—less about the infected and more about the savagery of survivors. There’s a cult-like atmosphere, with the Bone Temple itself promising something stranger and more terrifying than what’s come before.
Here’s the official synopsis:
Synopsis: Expanding upon the world created by Danny Boyle and Alex Garland in 28 Years Later – but turning that world on its head – Nia DaCosta directs 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple. In a continuation of the epic story, Dr. Kelson (Ralph Fiennes) finds himself in a shocking new relationship – with consequences that could change the world as they know it – and Spike’s (Alfie Williams) encounter with Jimmy Crystal (Jack O’Connell) becomes a nightmare he can’t escape. In the world of The Bone Temple, the infected are no longer the greatest threat to survival – the inhumanity of the survivors can be stranger and more terrifying.
Erin Kellyman and Chi Lewis-Parry round out the cast, with Alex Garland once again scripting, and Danny Boyle producing alongside Andrew Macdonald, Peter Rice, and Bernard Bellew. Cillian Murphy executive produces.
“Even greater changes are still to come,” the trailer warns. After watching, it’s hard not to believe it. “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” opens exclusively in theaters on January 16, 2026. Watch the new trailer below.
