Alex Garland On How COVID Shaped ’28 Years Later’

The zombie apocalypse is back on the big screen with 28 Years Later, a new film that reunites the creative team behind the 2002 hit 28 Days Later. Directed by Danny Boyle, written by Alex Garland, and shot by cinematographer Anthony Dod Mantle, the movie landed in theaters on June 20, 2025, distributed by Sony Pictures Releasing. It’s already made waves, pulling in $60 million globally, enough to cover its production costs.

Set decades after the Rage Virus first swept through the world, the story centers on a small family living in isolation on a peaceful island. The group, played by Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and young actor Alfie Williams, avoids the infected mainland. But a desperate trip for supplies throws them into danger. They encounter not only the fast-moving infected but also hostile survivors, including a strange cult led by a character portrayed by Jack O’Connell. The cast is packed with talent, featuring Ralph Fiennes, Edvin Ryding, Chi Lewis-Parry, Emma Laird, and Erin Kellyman. Cillian Murphy, the star of the original film, serves as an executive producer.

In an interview, Garland explained that the project took years to develop. He and Boyle had long discussed a third film, inspired by the lasting impact of the original. An early script didn’t work, feeling too predictable and focused on familiar virus-weaponization tropes. Garland scrapped it, which led to a bolder, more expansive story. While the COVID-19 pandemic shaped some elements, he stressed it wasn’t the core of the film. Instead, 28 Years Later explores themes like isolation and fear in a ravaged world.

Critics have largely embraced the movie. It holds an 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 76/100 score on Metacritic. Some, like The Daily Telegraph, called it Danny Boyle’s strongest work since Slumdog Millionaire, praising its daring approach. The Times also commended its confidence. However, not all reviews were positive. The Wall Street Journal found it forgettable, and The Detroit News criticized its messy narrative, saying it lacked focus.

Fans won’t have to wait long for more. Sony filmed a sequel, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, back-to-back with this one, set for release in January 2026.

28 Years Later delivers a fresh spin on the zombie genre. Its focus on new characters and bigger ideas keeps it from feeling like a tired retread. The risks it takes—like diving into themes of survival and human conflict—make it stand out, even if the story stumbles at times. It’s a bold addition to the series that respects its roots while pushing forward. What do you think of 28 Years Later? Did it scare you or leave you wanting more? Share your thoughts in the comments below!