Danny Boyle's '28 Years Later' sets June 2025 release date
Sony has officially announced the release date for the much-awaited zombie threequel, 28 Years Later. The film, marking the third installment in the popular horror franchise, will be released on June 20, 2025. This release coincides with the franchise's 22nd anniversary in the US; its predecessor, Danny Boyle-directed 28 Days Later first premiered domestically in June 2003. It was followed by the 2007 sequel 28 Weeks Later, helmed by Juan Carlos Fresnadillo.
Why does this story matter?
In 2002, Boyle's 28 Days Later introduced audiences to Cillian Murphy's character, Jim—a lone survivor in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by a lethal zombie virus. Set in a desolate Great Britain, the film follows Jim's quest to evade the wrath of enraged survivors. The film's acclaim led to the sequel in 2007 and now, a third installment is poised to further explore the dystopian universe crafted by Boyle and writer Alex Garland.
Boyle and Garland reunite after 22 years
The upcoming film will see the return of Boyle to the director's chair, with Garland penning the script. Murphy is attached as an executive producer. While the specific story details remain undisclosed, it is known that 28 Years Later is intended to set up a new trilogy of movies written by Garland. Per reports, Nia DaCosta, known for Candyman, is currently in talks to direct the second part of this new trilogy.
Meet the star-studded cast of the forthcoming film
The ensemble cast for 28 Years Later includes Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ralph Fiennes, and Jack O'Connell. O'Connell's character is reportedly a key figure for the upcoming trilogy. Meanwhile, reports surfaced earlier suggesting that Charlie Hunnam—renowned for his portrayal in Sons of Anarchy—may join the cast. However, there has been no official confirmation. Filming is set to commence in Northumberland this month.
'28 Years Later' to face stiff box office competition
Upon its release in June 2025, the film will face significant competition at the box office. The month will kick off with the return of the John Wick franchise with its spinoff Ballerina, while other releases include a live-action reboot of How to Train Your Dragon and another horror sequel, The Black Phone 2. Beyond June, competition continues from the next Jurassic World movie, an untitled film from South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, and James Gunn's Superman.
