Cillian Murphy's Part in the "28 Years Later" Series Delayed Beyond Anticipated Timeline
Cillian Murphy's Glorious Return to the Rage Virus Universe
Get ready, zombie apocalypse fans, because the legend himself, Cillian Murphy, is back in the post-apocalyptic world of 28 Days Later in the upcoming trilogy, 28 Years Later. But there's a twist, mate!
In an exclusive chat with IGN, Director Danny Boyle (the brains behind Trainspotting) divulged some tantalizing details about Murphy's return. The new trilogy, which kicks off this summer, promises to expand on the world Boyle and Alex Garland (the brilliant mind behind Civil War) built with 28 Days Later and Cillian Murphy. However, the first film introduces a new central character - Spike, a 12-year-old hero portrayed by Alfie Williams. Spike's family, led by Jodie Comer and Aaron Taylor-Johnson, finds themselves smack-dab in the middle of the zombie outbreak chaos.
"Though each story stands alone, there's a transition to the next film as well," Boyle shared. He warned that the project is pretty ambitious and they're yet to secure funding for the third installment. It all hinges on the success of the first movie, apparently.
"Hopefully, if we do well, they'll have the courage to greenlight the third one," Boyle explained. He confirmed that Murphy is standing by, waiting for his turn.
So where do we see our Irish hero, Jim, again? Well, that's slated for 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, set to hit theaters next January and helmed by none other than Nia DaCosta (Candyman). Murphy's appearance will only be at the end, and it'll just be a tantalizing taste of what's to come in the potential third film, which Sony, as of now, hasn't confirmed.
"You know sequels should push the boundaries and take risks," Boyle said. He admitted that Sony has been cool about their experimental approach to the trilogy - they didn't once ask him to tone it down or adhere to predictable sequel formulas.
So, what can we expect from this new chapter? 28 Years Later is scheduled to drop in June 2022.
Craving more io9 news? Keep up with the latest on Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, the future of Doctor Who, and everything you need to know about the DC Universe in films and TV.
Enrichment Data:
Cillian Murphy, famed for his unforgettable performance as Jim in the 2002 film "28 Days Later," returns to the rage virus continuity in 28 Years Later. In this trilogy, Murphy's character will make an appearance in the second installment, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, directed by Nia DaCosta and set for a January 16, 2026 release[1][2][3]. Murphy will not appear in the first film, but his role in The Bone Temple signifies a significant part in the potential third film, provided financing is secured[1][2][3]. The trilogy features interconnected characters and is designed to explore the rage virus storyline's progression. Boyle hinted that Murphy's character may play a crucial part in securing financing for the third movie[3].
Here's a quick rundown of Murphy's trilogy involvement:
- 28 Years Later: Murphy won't appear.
- 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple: Murphy will feature, though details are scarce.
- Third Installment: Murphy's character is expected to play a significant role, subject to financing[1][2][3].
- In the upcoming trilogy, 28 Years Later, Cillian Murphy reprises his role from the 2002 movie "28 Days Later," set for release on January 16, 2026 in the second installment, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple.
- According to Director Danny Boyle, Murphy's character in 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple could play a significant part in securing financing for the potential third film in the trilogy.
- Technology enthusiasts and movie-lovers alike can find more updates on the 28 Years Later trilogy, along with news on Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, Doctor Who, and the DC Universe, on Gizmodo and io9.
