The opening weekend of Danny Boyle’s 28 Years Later has sparked two major talking points among fans. The first is the film’s unexpected ending, introducing a controversial character. The second, more surprising topic? The abundance and prominence of nudity, particularly marked by one character’s anatomy.
In 28 Years Later, the Rage virus has turned the zombies roaming the mainland into stark-naked figures. A consequence of years spent as a zombie, the nudity is both explicit and thematic. The standout character is Samson, the Alpha zombie—he’s not only formidable and terrifying but also remarkably well-endowed, which becomes an eye-catching element throughout the film. Despite ample opportunities to defeat him, our protagonists leave him alive, suggesting his return in the sequence of events.
As Danny Boyle explained, “The character you saw at the end of the first film, Jack O’Connell, he’s a major character in the second film, along with Ralph Fiennes and the imposing Samson.” This long-awaited sequel, titled 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, is the second installment in a trilogy written by Alex Garland. Directed by Nia DaCosta, known for her work on Candyman and The Marvels, the sequel was filmed before the release of the first installment. Expect it to hit theaters on January 16, 2026—precisely 28 weeks after the initial release.
What about the eagerly anticipated third film? The creators have made it clear that this conclusion hinges on the success of the first two installments. If it goes forward, Boyle will return to direct, reuniting with Cillian Murphy, who has risen to fame following his role in the original 28 Days Later. Boyle confirmed that Murphy’s character will appear at the end of Bone Temple, playing a significant role in the potential third film.
Will Samson steal the spotlight once more? Sony Pictures’ chairman Tom Rothman is optimistic about the trilogy’s future, mentioning, “I don’t want to jinx it, but with such great reviews and a strong global start, we hope so.” Could we see another Alpha emerge, or will Samson reclaim his throne?
What makes the character of Samson so compelling in 28 Years Later? Samson represents not just physical strength but also the chaos that follows the Rage virus. His mix of horror and comedic aspects adds another layer of intrigue, making audiences curious about his fate.
How does 28 Years Later compare to its predecessor, 28 Days Later? While both films delve into survival in a post-apocalyptic world, the addition of prominent characters and shocking elements in the sequel elevates its narrative complexity.
What can we expect from the upcoming sequels? With each film planned to build upon the previous storyline, viewers can anticipate deeper character development and plot twists—particularly involving familiar faces like Jack O’Connell and Cillian Murphy.
Excited about the direction of this franchise? Make sure to keep an eye out for more updates on 28 Years Later and the rest of the trilogy. The ride is only just beginning!
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