Movies

28 Years Later sequel The Bone Temple is being released sooner than you think

BBG News

28 Years Later, the long-awaited continuation of 28 Weeks Later, has finally hit the big screen after an 18-year gap. However, fans can rejoice because the sequel will arrive much sooner!

The highly praised upcoming horror film is poised to initiate a brand-new trilogy from Danny Boyle and Alex Garland. Although there’s no confirmation yet about the third installment, we can certainly expect the second part because it has already been filmed.

When is its arrival and what can we anticipate from it? Here’s everything you should know about the intriguing title “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple“. However, be cautious as significant spoilers for “28 Years Later” lie ahead.

What to Read Next

When is the 28 Years Later sequel released in cinemas?

It’s been officially announced that the movie titled “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” will hit theaters on January 16, 2026.

Once again, there’s a chance that the release date might be pushed back, but it’s important to note that filming for the sequel has already been wrapped up. Interestingly, Nia DaCosta is now directing this project instead of Boyle, as he was busy completing “28 Years Later”.

In an interview with IndieWire in June 2025, Boyle explained that for both financial and actor-related reasons, it was logical to film the scenes consecutively rather than separately.

Since it wasn’t feasible for me to handle both tasks consecutively, we instead enlisted Nia DaCosta for the second project. This was beneficial because, if there’s one critique I might level at us, it’s that we can be quite exclusive, and bringing in a new perspective like hers helped to diversify our group.

He mentioned that he has previously watched a preliminary version of the sequel, featuring an “extremely fulfilling debut” for Cillian Murphy’s character Jim (details about him coming up later).

During an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Boyle mentioned that funding hasn’t been secured for the upcoming third film yet. However, should production go ahead, Boyle intends to return as director.

Who’s coming back for the 28 Years Later sequel?

If you’re familiar with the film “28 Years Later,” it won’t come as a shock to learn that Aaron Taylor-Johnson will reprise his role as Jamie, and Alfie Allen (commonly known as Alfie Williams in some contexts) will portray Jamie’s son, Spike.

In the upcoming sequel, Ralph Fiennes will portray Dr. Ian Kelson and Jack O’Connell will play Sir Jimmy Crystal. According to Boyle (via IndieWire), these characters are expected to take on significant roles in the storyline.

Unfortunately, it seems that Jodie Comer won’t reprise her role as Spike’s mother Isla in the sequel, as her character was chosen to be humanely terminated by Dr. Kelson in the original film.

There’s a chance Comer might have filmed some flashback sequences though.

Fresh faces in “The Bone Temple” are Erin Kellyman, Maura Bird, and Emma Laird, who portray characters named Jimmy Ink, Jimmy Jones, and Jimmima respectively. They are all part of Sir Jimmy Crystal’s cult, making a brief appearance at the end of “28 Years Later”.

In the sequel, it’s crucial to note that Cillian Murphy is set to return as Jim, but his involvement may not be extensive or central.

Nia obtains a small portion of Cillian towards the end, according to Boyle. All I can disclose is that you’ll need to be patient for Cillian, but let’s hope he assists in securing funding for the third movie.

As a gamer, if there’s indeed a third installment in the series, Murphy will be central to the action. I can’t reveal too much because I know the intricate plot details, but let me tell you, it’s a brilliant concept that utilizes him exceptionally well.

What’s the 28 Years Later sequel about?

The Bone Temple,” but the initial film presented numerous captivating scenarios that could be expanded upon in a sequel.

Towards the end of the film, Spike found himself encountering Sir Jimmy Crystal and his followers – all adorning attire reminiscent of Jimmy Savile – on the mainland after choosing a break from Holy Island, following the passing of his mother.

As Spike departed, he had taken with him a newly born infant from an infected woman they encountered in the film. The child, whom he named Isla, seems to be uninfected. Thus, it looks like the sequel will delve into this surprising turn of events.

It’s clear that Jamie intends to depart from Holy Island, driven by a desire to find his son. Moreover, since Dr. Kelson’s bone temple is featured in the film’s title, it seems likely that this site will play a significant role in the upcoming sequel.

As stated by Nia DaCosta, the upcoming sequel explores the theme of ‘evil’, following the initial film’s focus on the essence of family, and with plans for a third installment delving into the concept of redemption. (IndieWire source)

One might assume that Jack O’Connell’s character as a cult leader will play a significant role in the sequel’s narrative, but remember, with a Boyle and Garland film, the unexpected is always to be anticipated.

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple hits theaters on January 16, 2026. As of now, you can catch 28 Years Later in movie theaters.

As a gaming enthusiast who appreciates a good laugh, I’ve got some exciting news! The first physical issue of Digital Spy’s magazine has arrived! You can grab a copy of British Comedy Legends from your local newsagents or online for an affordable £3.99. Don’t miss out on this hilarious read!

Read More

2025-06-19 17:50

Previous post Riri Williams: The New Magic-Science Hero Ready to Challenge Doctor Doom!
Next post Why Outlander star Sam Heughan was left deeply confused by Australia’s winter weather amid visit Down Under