Key Takeaways:
• Director Danny Boyle and screenwriter Alex Garland are set to reunite for a sequel to the film 28 Days Later titled 28 Years Later.
• The sequel, potentially launching a trilogy, is set up at Sony.
• Cillian Murphy, star of the original film, is on board as an executive producer.
• Star Wars Rise of Skywalker star Jodie Comer is said to be in talks to join the cast.
• The screenplay for a follow-up sequel is already being written by Garland. However, Boyle plans to pass on the director’s chair for the follow-up.
• The new films will receive a theatrical release, each having budgets around the $60 million range.
Taking the Genre Forward
Warm up the popcorn machine and clear your schedule because Danny Boyle, the acclaimed director of 28 Days Later, and screenwriter Alex Garland are rejoining forces for a sequel. Titled 28 Years Later, the project has piqued the interest of horror fans around the world – especially since Sony is reportedly involved.
Ready for a Trilogy?
Earlier this year, it was made known that this sequel may kickstart an entire trilogy of 28 Days Later films. Initially released in 2002, 28 Days Later grossed $82.7 million globally, spawning a sequel, 28 Weeks Later, in 2007. However, Boyle and Garland merely held executive producer roles for the latter project, hence creating great anticipation for their hands-on involvement in 28 Years Later.
Involvement of Cillian Murphy
Adding to the hype, Cillian Murphy, who starred in the original film as the bicycle courier Jim, has confirmed his role as an executive producer. In the apocalyptic original, Jim awakens from a coma to an England overrun by people infected by a rage virus. Although the details remain unclear about Murphy returning on-screen, his participation in an off-screen role heightens the intrigue.
Potential Casting of Jodie Comer
Another thrilling development is the reported discussions with actress Jodie Comer to join the cast. Known for her roles in popular productions such as Killing Eve, The Last Duel, and Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker, Comer may bring a fresh dynamic to the 28 Days Later legacy. However, specifics about her role have yet to be unveiled.
Handing Over the Baton
Furthermore, screenwriter Garland has commenced writing the screenplay for the sequel ensuing 28 Years Later. Notably, Boyle, while currently directing the first project, plans to delegate the directorial helm to someone else for the subsequent film. This opens up exciting possibilities for new visionaries to add their spin to the franchise.
The Spectacle Returns to Theatres
Despite the changing landscape of film consumption, Sony is ensuring that these films will receive the theatrical release they deserve, injecting an approximate $60 million budget for each film. With the filmmaking veterans and iconic storyline, the draw towards a cinema viewing is undeniable.
Producing the Undead
28 Years Later is receiving further production muscle from Bernie Bellew, original producer Andrew Macdonald, and Peter Rice, former head of Fox Searchlight Pictures, which backed 28 Days Later. Murphy is also extending his role beyond acting by stepping in as an executive producer.
Without a doubt, the return of this beloved zombie apocalypse narrative, alongside the participation of revered artists like Boyle, Garland, Murphy, and the potential inclusion of Comer, is sure to stir anticipation amongst viewers. Whether you’re a ‘zombie’ movie lover or simply a fan of brilliant storytelling and entertainment, keep a close eye on this space for more updates about 28 Years Later.
