What is 28 Years Later about?

Twenty-eight years after the Rage virus outbreak, Britain remains sealed off from the world. A fortified island community survives in isolation—until a young boy’s journey to the mainland reveals how both the infected and the survivors have evolved.

28 Years Later

"In 28 days it began. In 28 weeks it spread. In 28 years it evolved."

Movie R 2025 1h 55m 6.6 /10

Part of 28 Days/Weeks/Years Later Collection

Directed by Danny Boyle

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Streaming availability last verified: January 31, 2026

About 28 Years Later

Twenty eight years have passed since a hulking rage virus escaped a secret lab, and the world still lives under a strict quarantine. On a tiny island linked to the mainland by a heavily fortified causeway, a stubborn enclave of civilization holds the line, watching the borders and counting the days. When a single member slips away on a mission beyond the island's clamor, the search yields more than danger. What he finds are secrets that shift what everyone thought about the outbreak, along with wonders and horrors that have changed both the infected and the people who remain. The line between savagery and survival grows blurrier with every step. The setting leans on weathered docks, dim villages, and constant watching that feed the claustrophobic mood.

Directed by Danny Boyle, the film reimagines Alex Garland's concept for a contemporary audience. Based on a concept by Garland, Boyle blends science fiction with suspense and brisk thriller pacing, featuring Jodie Comer in the lead alongside Ralph Fiennes and a strong supporting cast, and a post apocalyptic vibe.

Box office figures have not been released yet and worldwide grosses remain undisclosed as the 2025 release expands across theaters. Early audience turnout appears solid, but there are no official numbers available to cite.

As of now there are no major nominations announced for this title. Critics have praised performances and production design, but the film has not yet secured prominent awards. Still, its visual style and tense pacing could make it a contender in future season rounds.

Critics highlight the film's take on quarantine ethics, the mutating threat, and how fear reshapes communities. The story centers on Isla and her fragile authority as she negotiates safety, autonomy, and trust. Strong performances, especially Jodie Comer and Ralph Fiennes, deepen the mood of creeping dread.

What Viewers Are Saying

6.6/10

from 2,137 ratings

Audiences have mixed feelings about "28 Years Later," with some appreciating the film’s technical polish, strong performances, and thematic ambition, particularly in its humanist approach and bold narrative risks. However, many criticize its pacing, inconsistent plot shifts, and underdeveloped characters, especially the abrupt change in focus midway through. The new evolved infected and some tonal choices divided viewers, with a number finding certain scenes unintentionally humorous or out of place. Overall, opinions range from seeing it as a worthy if imperfect addition to the franchise to feeling it is a disappointing departure from the original films.