28 Years Later is a 2025 post-apocalyptic coming-of-age horror film directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland, serving as the third installment in the 28 Days Later film series. It stars Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Alfie Williams, and Ralph Fiennes, with Cillian Murphy returning as executive producer and reportedly making an appearance[1][2].
After years in development, the film finally moved forward when producer Andrew Macdonald reacquired the rights and struck a deal with Sony Pictures to fund sequels, with Boyle, Garland, and original cinematographer Anthony Dod Mantle all returning[1]. The movie was released in the UK and US on June 20, 2025, by Columbia Pictures through Sony Pictures Releasing[1][2].
The story begins with the initial outbreak of the rage virus and follows a 12-year-old boy named Spike (Alfie Williams), who is raised on a small fortified island off the UK. As the virus has been contained to a limited area, the community lives in relative safety until Spike embarks on a coming-of-age rite with his father, venturing out and confronting the terrors that remain on the mainland[3][5].
28 Years Later has been confirmed as the first part of a new trilogy, with the sequel, titled 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, already filmed and set for release in January 2026[1][4]. Nia DaCosta is slated to direct the follow-up, and Alex Garland will continue to write[4][2].
Critical reception has been generally positive, with reviewers praising Boyle’s ability to bring a more heartfelt, character-driven approach while still delivering moments of intense survival horror. However, some critics and fans have found the film less adrenaline-charged than its predecessors, focusing more on human relationships and the existential consequences of survival[3][4][6].
In terms of box office, as of July 27, 2025, the film grossed $70 million in the United States and Canada, and $80 million in other territories, totaling $150 million worldwide against a $60 million budget. Its opening weekend brought in $30 million, marking the franchise’s best debut weekend in the US[1][2][6].
The film’s official trailer, released by Sony Pictures, further details the premise and showcases the visuals and tone fans of the series expect. Critics note the distinct shift in style from earlier entries, drawing comparisons to both The Walking Dead and The Last of Us in its depiction of a devastated world, while maintaining Boyle’s unique touch[5][4].
References
- [1] 28 Years Later – Wikipedia
- [2] Everything You Need to Know About 28 Years Later Movie (2025)
- [3] ’28 Years Later’ an uneven, but effective sequel | Bowling Green
- [4] ’28 Years Later’ review: Dir. Danny Boyle (2025)
- [5] 28 YEARS LATER – Official Trailer (HD) – YouTube
- [6] 28 Years Later (2025) – IMDb