Nia DaCosta delivers the best installment in the franchise, skillfully weaving together gore, horror, and heart without compromising the narrative. Ralph Fiennes and Jack O’Connell deliver outstanding performances as characters embodying opposing aspects of humanity.
Nia DaCosta (Hedda, The Marvels, Candyman) continues the story of Spike (Alfie Williams) and Dr. Kelson (Ralph Fiennes), who were introduced in Danny Boyle’s previous film. Boyle serves as a producer alongside producer/screenwriter Alex Garland.
On his journey to manhood, Spike is recruited to join Jimmy Crystal’s violent gang, led by the psychotic Jack O’Connell. Will he succumb to the darkness and become a killer like the others?
Nia DaCosta Interview: Pressures of Following Danny Boyle
Meanwhile, Dr. Kelson may have discovered a cure for the rage virus through his interactions with the monstrous Samson, the infected character last seen in the previous movie.
DaCosta retains the franchise’s signature rock ’n’ roll/punk aesthetic while introducing her own unique storytelling techniques. Visually, she avoids Boyle’s chaotic camera work but infuses the film with intensity through character interactions.
28 YEARS LATER Cast Interviews
The director skillfully balances the violence of Jimmy’s gang with Dr. Kelson’s compassionate and altruistic nature. We delve deeper into the former physician’s psyche and explore how he maintains his sanity as the sole inhabitant of his Bone Temple.
Fiennes brings depth to this warm-hearted character, counteracting the evil side of humanity embodied by Jimmy Crystal (O’Connell).
Fiennes delivers a standout performance in the movie, portraying the devil in a performance to Iron Maiden’s “The Number of the Beast.” The spectacular show, complete with pyrotechnics and macabre imagery, creates one of the most exhilarating moments in the film, inspiring the audience to erupt in applause.
Jack O’Connell is on a roll as an actor, delivering memorable roles in last year’s Sinners and now in this 28 Years Later sequel. He portrays Jimmy’s leader, a dangerous, narcissistic, and violent man who uses religion to demand allegiance and carry out his heinous acts of cruelty. O’Connell’s chilling portrayal of the cult leader leaves a lasting impression.
Like Boyle’s 28 Years Later, The Bone Temple concludes with a metaphoric tragedy that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.
Alfie Williams continues to shine as the heart of the movie, complemented by standout performances from Chi Lewis-Parry as Samson and Erin Kellyman as one of the Jimmys.
The score in the sequel is even more impactful, infusing the film with urgency and emotion.
The ending sets up the third installment, with Cillian Murphy making a surprise appearance, but he’s not alone.
The Bone Temple is simply fantastic! The sequel hits all the right notes in storytelling, character development, and sometimes brutal action. Nia DaCosta’s film is a true masterclass in filmmaking, with a solid screenplay from Alex Garland.
We eagerly anticipate the next chapter. Boyle is set to return as director for the third/final movie in the trilogy, with Alex Garland writing the script.
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple opens in movie theaters on January 16.
