The highly anticipated sequel “28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple” is set to hit theaters on January 16, 2026. This upcoming film continues the thrilling zombie apocalypse saga that began with the cult classic “28 Days Later” in 2002. Columbia Pictures has scheduled the release for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend, positioning it as a major blockbuster event for horror and action fans alike.
Director Nia DaCosta, known for her work on “The Marvels” and “Candyman,” takes the helm for this installment. The screenplay is penned by Alex Garland, who wrote the original “28 Days Later,” ensuring continuity and depth in the storytelling. As the second part of a planned trilogy, “The Bone Temple” promises to expand the post-apocalyptic world that has captivated audiences for over two decades.
While plot details remain under wraps, the ominous subtitle “The Bone Temple” suggests a dark and potentially ritualistic element to the story. Fans of the franchise can expect intense action, psychological horror, and thought-provoking themes that have become hallmarks of the series. With its prime release date and talented creative team, “28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple” is poised to be a major cinematic event in early 2026.
The Next Chapter in the 28 Days Later Saga
What We Know About 28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple
Fans of the 28 Days Later horror series have exciting news. A second sequel, 28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple, is coming. This film follows 28 Years Later, which itself continues the story of 28 Days Later.
Release Date and Production
28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple is set to release in January 2026. This is about six months after the release of 28 Years Later. This close release schedule suggests the two films are closely linked. Filming for The Bone Temple has already finished.
Key People Involved
- Director: Nia DaCosta, who directed Candyman (2021) and The Marvels (2023), is directing this film.
- Writer: Alex Garland, who wrote the first film, 28 Days Later, is writing the script for both sequels.
- Star: Cillian Murphy, who starred in 28 Days Later, will be in these new films.
What to Expect
Because the two new movies are coming out so close together, it is likely they will tell one big story. They will probably show more of the world after the “rage virus” outbreak. The return of Alex Garland and Cillian Murphy gives the films a strong link to the original. Nia DaCosta’s direction will bring a fresh take to the series.
| Film | Director | Writer | Release |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28 Days Later | Danny Boyle | Alex Garland | 2002 |
| 28 Weeks Later | Juan Carlos Fresnadillo | Rowan Joffé, Jesús Olmo, Enrique López Lavigne | 2007 |
| 28 Years Later | TBD | Alex Garland | 2025 |
| 28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple | Nia DaCosta | Alex Garland | 2026 |
The Impact of 28 Days Later
28 Days Later was an important horror film. It showed a new type of zombie, one that was fast and aggressive. This changed how zombie movies were made. It also showed a post-apocalyptic world that felt very real.
Other Post-Apocalyptic Films and Shows
If you like 28 Days Later, there are other movies and TV shows you might enjoy. Some examples include:
- The Walking Dead: A TV show about survivors in a zombie apocalypse.
- The Last of Us: A video game and TV show about a man and a girl traveling across a post-apocalyptic United States.
- Children of Men: A movie about a world where people can no longer have children.
These stories often explore how people react in terrible situations. They look at themes of survival, hope, and what it means to be human.
Key Takeaways
- “28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple” debuts in theaters on January 16, 2026
- Nia DaCosta directs the sequel, with Alex Garland returning as screenwriter
- The film is the second installment in a planned trilogy, expanding the franchise’s post-apocalyptic world
Background and Development
The 28 Days Later film, released in 2002, revitalized the zombie genre with its fast-moving infected and gritty portrayal of a post-apocalyptic Britain. Its impact on subsequent horror films and television is undeniable. Now, over two decades later, the franchise is set to return with not one, but two new installments. The announcement of *28 Years Later* and its sequel, 28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple, has generated considerable excitement among fans eager to revisit this terrifying world.
The “28 Years Later” franchise continues with its highly anticipated sequel. This installment builds on the success of previous films while introducing new creative talents to the series.
Origins and Previous Installments
The zombie apocalypse saga began in 2002 with 28 Days Later, directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland. The film starred Cillian Murphy and revolutionized the zombie genre with its fast-moving infected.
In 2007, “28 Weeks Later” followed, expanding the story’s scope. Both films gained critical acclaim and commercial success, establishing a strong fanbase.
The franchise took a long hiatus after the second film, leaving fans eager for more content.
Announcement and Directorial Vision
Columbia Pictures announced “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” with a release date of January 16, 2026. Nia DaCosta, known for “The Marvels” and “Candyman,” takes the director’s chair for this installment.
Alex Garland returns to pen the screenplay, ensuring continuity with the original film’s vision. The project aims to blend DaCosta’s fresh perspective with Garland’s established narrative style.
Filming for “The Bone Temple” and its predecessor occurred back-to-back, using iPhones as the primary shooting device. This innovative approach may influence the film’s visual style and storytelling techniques.
| Film | Release Year | Director |
|---|---|---|
| 28 Days Later | 2002 | Danny Boyle |
| 28 Weeks Later | 2007 | Juan Carlos Fresnadillo |
| 28 Years Later | 2025 (TBA) | TBA |
| The Bone Temple | 2026 | Nia DaCosta |
Plot and Setting
“The Bone Temple” continues the story 28 years after the initial outbreak, exploring new threats and challenges. The sequel takes viewers to a mysterious island and the dark heart of mainland Britain.
Overview of ‘The Bone Temple’
The film is set on a small island off the British coast. This location serves as a quarantine zone for survivors. The island holds secrets, wonders, and horrors that unfold as the story progresses.
Characters face a new strain of the infection. This variant has mutated over the past 28 years. It poses fresh dangers to the survivors.
The plot revolves around a mission to the mainland. Characters must venture into the heart of infected territory. Their goal: to uncover the truth behind “The Bone Temple”.
New Characters and Challenges
Jodie Comer, Ralph Fiennes, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jack O’Connell, and Erin Kellyman join the cast. They portray survivors facing unprecedented threats.
The characters confront evolved infected beings. These creatures have adapted over nearly three decades. Their abilities and behaviors present unique challenges.
| Character | Actor/Actress | Role |
|---|---|---|
| TBA | Jodie Comer | Survivor |
| TBA | Ralph Fiennes | Leader |
| TBA | Aaron Taylor-Johnson | Warrior |
| TBA | Jack O’Connell | Explorer |
| TBA | Erin Kellyman | Scientist |
Rumors suggest the plot involves biological weapons. These may link to the origin of “The Bone Temple”. Characters must unravel this mystery while fighting for survival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fans eagerly anticipate details about the upcoming sequel in the 28 Days Later franchise. Key information about the cast, plot, and production has emerged, shedding light on what viewers can expect from this highly anticipated film.
Who are the cast members of ’28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple’?
Cast details for ’28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple’ remain undisclosed. Sony Pictures has not made any official announcements regarding the actors involved in the project.
Speculation continues among fans about potential returning characters or new faces joining the franchise. The studio is likely to reveal cast information as the release date approaches.
What is the storyline for ’28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple’?
Plot details for ‘The Bone Temple’ are being kept under wraps. The film’s title suggests a potentially ominous setting or concept within the story.
As the second part of a planned trilogy, it’s expected to continue the narrative established in the first ’28 Years Later’ film. The screenplay is written by Alex Garland, who penned the original ’28 Days Later’.
Which director is behind ’28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple’?
Nia DaCosta is set to direct ’28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple’. Her previous works include ‘The Marvels’ and the ‘Candyman’ remake.
DaCosta’s involvement brings a fresh perspective to the franchise, potentially infusing new stylistic elements while maintaining the series’ core themes.
How does ’28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple’ connect to the previous film?
‘The Bone Temple’ is the second installment in a planned trilogy, following the events of the first ’28 Years Later’ film.
While specific plot connections remain unknown, it’s likely to build upon the world and characters established in its predecessor. The involvement of original writer Alex Garland suggests continuity in the overall narrative arc.
What locations were used for filming ’28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple’?
Filming locations for ‘The Bone Temple’ have not been officially announced. The production team has kept details about the shoot under wraps.
Given the franchise’s history, it’s possible that parts of the UK may serve as a backdrop. However, the global scope of the story could lead to more diverse filming locations.
Are there any special promotions or events planned for the release of ’28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple’?
No specific promotions or events for ‘The Bone Temple’ have been announced yet. The film’s January 16, 2026 release date falls on Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend in the US.
As the premiere approaches, Sony Pictures may reveal plans for fan events, exclusive screenings, or promotional tie-ins to build excitement for the film’s debut.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | January 16, 2026 |
| Director | Nia DaCosta |
| Screenwriter | Alex Garland |
| Distributor | Sony Pictures |
| Franchise | 28 Days Later |
| Film in Series | Second of planned trilogy |
