’28 Years Later: The Bone Temple’ Stays True to “Punk Rock” Franchise with Cillian Murphy’s Return

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Director Nia DaCosta describes her new film, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, as staying true to the energetic and rebellious spirit of the original 28 Days Later from 2002. The movie, which is currently playing in theaters to positive reviews, revisits the world overrun by infection, following new characters like Spike and Dr. Kelson, as well as the unsettling Jimmy cult. While the 109-minute film is full of intense horror and memorable characters, the biggest buzz surrounds the return of Cillian Murphy as Jim in the closing scene.

Speaking with Entertainment Weekly, director DaCosta explained the need for sensitivity when portraying the Rage survivor’s quiet scene.

As a critic, what struck me most was the director’s commitment to grounding the story in everyday life. Despite being set after some kind of apocalypse, the focus isn’t on the disaster itself. Instead, we see a father making breakfast, teaching his daughter about history – a very normal, domestic scene happening in a beautiful Lake District cottage. Honestly, that’s the heart of it. And it’s fascinating because, despite all that warmth, the director described the project as a ‘punk-rock, metal’ series – a really interesting contrast that promises something unique.

Honestly, when I think about big franchise movies, this isn’t the kind of story that usually comes to mind, and I really wanted to honor that. I didn’t want a typical ‘hero arrives to save the day’ vibe at all. This is about Jim, the bike messenger – the guy who struggled to even run up stairs in the first film! Now he’s a dad, and I wanted to show that reality – a flawed, relatable guy just trying to manage life, not some invincible hero.

How Does Jim’s Return Play Out on Screen?


Sony Pictures Releasing

After the brutal attack on Sir Lord Jimmy Crystal (Jack O’Connell), which appears fatal, the film shifts to a peaceful scene of Jimmy homeschooling his daughter, Sam (Maiya Eastmond), at their cottage. This calm doesn’t last, as Spike and Jimmy Ink (Erin Kellyman) burst onto the scene, fleeing from infected people in the surrounding fields.

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The two men, both carrying guns, set off to investigate what’s happening. Sam wonders if they’ll offer help, but Jim decides they will. The story concludes with many potential futures for the characters: will Jim promise to reunite Spike with his father on Holy Island? Will Samson track them down and challenge the group, fighting to continue his recovery? Regardless, director Danny Boyle is planning a third installment, and it’s expected to be released by 2028, if all goes well.

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2026-01-19 02:49