Danny Boyle gives update on ’28 Years Later: Part 3′ as Cillian Murphy’s role takes shape
The film is expected to continue the story established in ’28 Years Later’ and ’28 Years Later: The Bone Temple’
Danny Boyle has offered an update on 28 Years Later: Part 3, revealing that the third film in the zombie horror trilogy remains in development as the filmmaker prepares to return to the director’s chair.
The film is expected to continue the story established in 28 Years Later and 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, with Boyle previously confirming plans to direct the third instalment. Alex Garland, who created the franchise alongside Boyle, is writing the screenplay.
Cillian Murphy is also expected to have a significantly expanded role in the third film. Boyle previously described Murphy as an “enormous character” in 28 Years Later: Part 3, after the actor returned as Jim, the protagonist of 2002’s 28 Days Later, in The Bone Temple.
The trilogy was conceived as three interconnected films, with each story also designed to stand on its own. Boyle has explained that the films share characters and an overarching storyline, while moving through distinct narratives.
Boyle directed 28 Years Later, while Nia DaCosta took over directing duties for The Bone Temple. Boyle is set to return for the third film, which was envisioned as a larger story centred on redemption and Murphy’s Jim, bringing the franchise back to its original protagonist.
Sony moved forward with the third film after 28 Years Later performed strongly at the global box office, with the first instalment earning more than $151 million worldwide. The studio had also filmed the first two films back-to-back, allowing the wider story to develop across the planned trilogy.
While details about the plot remain under wraps, 28 Years Later: Part 3 is expected to bring together elements and characters from the earlier films, including the continuing story of Alfie Williams’ Spike and Murphy’s Jim. The film’s production timeline has yet to be fully confirmed.
