Sony Pictures is moving forward with a third film in the 28 years later franchise, tentatively titled 28 years later iii. Cillian Murphy is in talks to return to his starring role, while Alex Garland is penning the script. The development follows strong fan reactions to screenings of the second installment, 28 years later: the bone temple.
Franchise Background
The 28 years later series revives the zombie horror franchise that began with 2002's 28 days later, directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland. The original film grossed significantly and was followed by 28 weeks later in 2007. Sony acquired rights to a new trilogy, shooting the first two films back-to-back. The first, 28 years later, directed by Boyle, opened in June 2025 to $30 million domestically and earned $70.4 million in the U.S. and $151.3 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing entry yet.
Recent Developments
The second film, 28 years later: the bone temple, directed by Nia DaCosta, is set for release on January 16, 2026, over MLK weekend. Recent fan screenings have generated buzz, with one attendee describing it as: “Nia DaCosta knocks it out of the park... The complex tapestry of tones provides the perfect canvas for a brutal and nightmarish study of unchecked power.” This positive reception has prompted Sony to greenlight the third film, which lacks a confirmed title or director but sees Garland returning as writer.
Cast and Production
Cillian Murphy, who starred in the original 28 days later and reprises his role in the bone temple, is in early talks to lead the third installment. Murphy also serves as an executive producer on the first two films. Danny Boyle has expressed interest in directing the trilogy's conclusion, though no final decisions have been announced. The series explores a dystopian world where the infected battle a divided human population.
The entire franchise has grossed nearly $300 million worldwide across its previous entries, underscoring its enduring appeal in the horror genre.
