Cillian Murphy returns as he takes one of his most known roles in the upcoming sequel, “28 Years Later.” This film revives the dark feel of Danny Boyle’s 2002 movie “28 Days Later.” In this new work, Murphy’s character, Jim, appears only at the end.
The Sequel to a Horror Classic
“28 Days Later” changed the zombie genre. Its clear story and social points fit a post-apocalyptic scene. Murphy played Jim as he woke to a world where a virus turned people into enraged beings. His role helped shape his career and led him to roles like his recent one in “Oppenheimer.”
In “28 Years Later,” Murphy’s role builds strong excitement among fans. He does not guide the whole film, set for theaters on June 20, 2025. Director Danny Boyle explains that Jim appears in the final act to let the story continue.
A Vision for a Trilogy
Boyle and writer Alex Garland see “28 Years Later” as the start of a new trilogy. The film stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Comer, and Ralph Fiennes and brings new challenges and characters while keeping the first film’s feel. The next movie, “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple,” will be directed by Nia DaCosta and comes out on January 16, 2026. The early response to “28 Years Later” will decide if a third film is made. Boyle hopes that Murphy’s return, after his recent praise, will help build support for the next part. In interviews, Boyle said that having Murphy join helped get the starting funds and that new iPhone filming methods played a role in getting the deal done.
The Impact of Murphy’s Role
Murphy’s choice to join the trilogy adds weight to the story and acts as a key link in the project. Boyle said that fans’ strong reaction to Murphy’s role might help gain the funds needed for the third film. "Each story in the trilogy stands on its own but they hold close links," he said, showing that each film builds on the last while keeping a strong bond.
What Lies Ahead
As fans wait for “28 Years Later,” talk of a trilogy grows stronger. Murphy joining this refreshed story makes the film a unique movie that ties the past with a fresh look at the future. If the film meets expectations, we may see “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” and a full ending to this thrilling saga.
For now, audiences get ready for the first film of this revival while they keep hope high for Murphy’s key return later on. “28 Years Later” opens in theaters, and its follow-up promises to add more details to the story and bring back the somber mood that has kept viewers hooked for years. The journey from the empty streets and hospital scenes in the UK to the film’s fresh turns remains as strong as ever.
