28 Years Later: A Stunning Yet Confusing Journey Through Horror and Humanity

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In several aspects, Danny Boyle’s movie titled “28 Years Later” stands out as a remarkable extension of the franchise, showcasing inventive world-building in the horror genre. While “28 Days Later” delves into the initial spread of the Rage virus across the U.K., and “28 Weeks Later” examines a second outbreak, “28 Years Later” focuses on the lives of those isolated on quarantined Britain, or at least a small island town inhabited by survivors. The film is visually stunning, offers intriguing world-building and maintains a high level of tension, but there are significant inconsistencies in tone and narrative between its various parts.

28 Days Later revolutionized zombie movies by introducing a swift and scientifically grounded menace in the form of the aggressive Infected. Weeks provides viewers with a glimpse into the state of the U.K. and Europe following the spread of this new infection wave. It is revealed that the Infected reaching Europe were successfully repelled, but the entire U.K. has been enforced under quarantine, leaving isolated, technologically-limited communities struggling to survive.

28 Years Later focuses on the present state of the Infected and those surrounded by them, but the main narrative revolves around a family in turmoil. This story can be seen as a kind of maturity journey, seamlessly transitioning into its sequel, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, set for release on January 16, 2026.

28 Years Later Is A Stealth Coming-Of-Age Tale

In the island community where they reside, Jamie (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) lives with his unwell spouse Isla (Jodie Comer), and their 12-year-old child Spike (Alfie Williams). Right at the beginning of the movie, it’s Jamie who takes Spike into the wilderness for his initial kill of an Infected, a practice that is typically carried out by the town’s teenagers.

1. One day, the duo spots an unanticipated fire in the distance, and they narrowly avoid several dangerous situations. Upon returning home, they celebrate their fortunate escape. However, Spike discovers that the blaze originates from the abode of the enigmatic (and infamously insane) Dr. Kelson (played by Ralph Fiennes), a man whispered about in hushed tones.

2. The young boy makes a risky move by accompanying his mother on a secretive excursion, aiming to find her medical help for her illness. The decision to traverse the main island is fraught with tension, given that the lad has only managed one successful expedition into Infected territories. Now he must guide his ailing and disoriented mother through this perilous journey.

3. Their voyage takes an interesting turn with two human characters providing assistance. Initially, they’re assisted by a Swedish soldier who got stranded, injecting some humor into the tense situation. The boy’s sister, Isla, decides to help an infected woman give birth during their train ride, before they’re pursued by an Alpha towards Dr. Kelson’s Bone Temple. Eventually, they come across the enigmatic Doctor himself.

28 Years Later Is Intriguing, Gorgeous, But The Narrative Is Dissonant

The storyline of “28 Years Later” is divided into distinct segments, each featuring significantly diverse moods. The initial segment establishes Spike’s rite of passage, his strained relationship with Jamie, and Isla’s unidentified but crippling illness. This part is the film’s most terrifying (earning its R-rating), highlighting the power of the new Alpha Infected, while simultaneously showcasing the allure of a reclaimed nature. Aaron Taylor-Johnson delivers an impressive performance as Jamie, struggling to be a good father amidst the tension surrounding Isla’s condition.

Alfie Williams gives a remarkable portrayal as Spike, despite his youth, finding himself in perilous situations. Jodie Comer offers a powerful portrayal of Isla, although at times the writing of her character’s episodes feels contrived, leading to difficulties or complete absence based on what the plot demands from her character.

In a more casual and understandable manner: Ralph Fiennes gives a powerful performance as the enigmatic, compassionate, and quirky Doctor. However, his part seems somewhat disconnected, like it was taken from another film and inserted here, since Spike, Isla, and Dr. Kelson spend a lot of time discussing death during this segment.

28 Years Later offers some striking instances. Each encounter between Spike and Jamie is compelling. The fresh Alphas are chilling. Fiennes’ portrayal of Doctor is intriguing and potent. The climax introduces Jimmy (Jack O’Connell) and his gang of tracksuit-donning Infected assassins, adding a jolt of energy to the story’s last phase that hints at promise for the film’s sequel. Acting talents shine consistently throughout.

28 Years Later relies heavily on random decisions, which can be questionable at times. For instance, Spike, who was fearful on the main island, suddenly chooses to act independently with his ailing mother, an action that seems illogical given the circumstances. Additionally, the character delivers a baby in a perilous situation for no apparent reason, and her illness appears or disappears depending on how it advances the plot from one point to another.

This production is overflowing with grand concepts, stunning visuals, and compelling acting that highlights intriguing characters. However, it’s a bit of a mixed bag, with an eclectic blend of ideas and inconsistent tones. The abrupt character actions and plot twists sometimes make Spike’s journey to transport his mother inland seem more like a sub-plot rather than the central narrative.

Final Rating: 7 out of 10

The film 28 Years Later hits theaters on June 20, 2025.

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2025-06-19 00:37