Director Nia DaCosta recently discussed the intense climax of 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple with Entertainment Weekly, focusing on Dr. Ian Kelson’s dramatic confrontation. Ralph Fiennes delivers a captivatingly villainous performance as Kelson, putting on a wildly over-the-top display for Jimmy Crystal and his followers. The scene, which includes blaring Iron Maiden, hallucinogenic powder, and pyrotechnics, is truly one of the most shocking of recent cinema. Kelson’s desperate attempt to convince the group he is ‘Old Nick’ – a warning Jimmy Crystal previously gave him – is a matter of life and death.
Honestly, when I heard the director, DaCosta, talk about how she approached the movie, it really resonated with me. She kept three words in mind: scary, epic, and fun! But what I loved was her focus on showing the kids – the Jimmies, as she called them – as actual children, really feeling lost and overwhelmed by everything happening around them. It just sounded like a really thoughtful approach to making a thrilling movie.
I want the experience to feel like the first time they’re jumping into a mosh pit – because for everyone except Jack O’Connell, it is the first time they’ve ever really felt music that powerfully. What kind of impact does that have on your body when you’re an adult and it’s a completely new sensation?
The director explained how she approached filming the intense encounter written by Alex Garland, describing the script as incredibly ambitious. She said she and her production designers gradually constructed the scene over time. She was particularly impressed with Ralph Fiennes’ dedication, recalling how he repeatedly performed the scene shirtless late at night, refusing breaks. She noted he understands that half-hearted effort doesn’t translate well on screen, and that the script demanded full commitment from everyone involved – there was no room for backing down.
Does Dr. Kelson Convince the Jimmies That He’s Satan?
Sony Pictures Releasing
After Dr. Kelson’s captivating display ends, Sir Jimmy’s devoted followers – those he considers essential to his power – become completely convinced he is a godlike figure. Eager to be rid of them, the doctor urges the group to expand their membership and continue their supposed charitable work, which is actually a cover for murdering anyone who refuses to join them while they travel.
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He quickly realizes Spike is the one behind the mask and wrests control back from Sir Jimmy, dramatically claiming a necessary self-sacrifice mirroring Jesus to demonstrate his divine power. This leads to a violent confrontation that doesn’t end well for either Dr. Kelson or Sir Jimmy. Interested in reading more about what many consider the best film in the 28…Later series? Check out the MovieWeb review to get started.
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2026-01-18 02:47