by Henry Pham
Anyone who is not a big fan of post-apocalyptic films should choose another movie to satisfy your movie-watching cravings. To those who have already seen 28 Years Later, just letting you know that this sequel has shot back-to-back with the previous film. 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple takes place after the events of the previous film, and focuses on Spike who has been inducted into Sir Jimmy Crystal’s gang of acrobatic killers in a post-apocalyptic Britain ravaged by the Rage Virus. Meanwhile, Dr. Ian Kelson forms a new relationship with potentially world-changing consequences.
Alfie Williams returns as Spike, the teenage son of Jamie (previously played by Aaron-Taylor Johnson), who is now on a personal quest on the mainland. Oscar nominee Ralph Fiennes (The English Patient, Conclave) and Jack O’Connell (Starred Up, Sinners) reprise their roles as Dr. Ian Kelson and Sir Lord Jimmy Crystal, the psychopathic leader of “the Jimmys,” inspired by Jimmy Savile and serving as the sequel’s antagonist. While Jimmy made a brief appearance in the previous film, this sequel develops his character further to support the storyline. Williams and Fiennes deliver outstanding performances, though they only share a scene at the film’s conclusion. Fiennes’s character and his scenes are particular highlights. Aaron-Taylor Johnson does not appear in this installment.
This film is the fourth entry in the 28 Days Later franchise and the first in the planned 28 Years Later trilogy. Nia DeCosta (director of Candyman, The Marvels) directs, taking over from Danny Boyle, who remains as a producer. Alex Garland returns as the screenwriter. The CGI, music, and makeup are exceptional, creating a surreal visual experience that surpasses the previous film. DeCosta’s direction showcases her skill in horror filmmaking and sets new standards for the franchise. The ending is entertaining, with Fiennes delivering memorable moments. The film’s pacing has improved, but it contains significant blood, gore, scary images, cannibalism, and strong language, which may not be suitable for younger viewers.
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple is a self-aware sequel, mostly for those who have seen the previous film, providing some genuine horror and humor. It offers intense cinematography and runs at a normal pace. The cast performances are enjoyable, mostly by Fiennes. Williams, on the other hand, and O’Connell are incredible (and bloody hilarious, no pun intended), and they deserve some recognition and praise for their acting skills. Also, to avoid spoiling things, keep watching until the end, as you will see someone very familiar from the first film of the 28 Days Later franchise. I think this sequel will perform just as well as the previous film, and I think there’s going to be another installment coming up in the future, with the production already being commenced. The film runs about 109 minutes long.
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