UPDATE: Excitement surges as social media erupts with first reactions to the highly anticipated sequel, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple. Following press screenings held on Tuesday night, early responses indicate that the film is set to redefine the genre and deliver a captivating new chapter in the franchise.
While official critic reviews remain under embargo until closer to the film’s January 16, 2026 release, Columbia Pictures has permitted select press in the U.S. and U.K. to share their immediate reactions. The buzz is palpable, with fans eager to dive back into the chilling aftermath of the Rage Virus that devastated the North East of England.
The narrative picks up directly where 28 Years Later left off, showcasing the struggles of human survivors. Central to the plot are two key characters: Dr. Ian Kelson, portrayed by Ralph Fiennes, who is on a quest to find a cure, and Spike, played by Alfie Williams, who finds himself embroiled in the deadly world of Sir Jimmy Crystal, enacted by Jack O’Connell.
Director Nia DaCosta, noted for her work on Hedda and Candyman, takes over from Danny Boyle, who produced the film alongside Alex Garland, the original writer. DaCosta has hinted at an innovative approach that sets this film apart, enriching the lore of the franchise.
Earlier this year, at the Edinburgh Film Festival, DaCosta revealed how Jonathan Glazer encouraged her to take on this monumental project. The anticipation builds as fans recall the success of the previous film, which garnered an 89 percent critics score on Rotten Tomatoes and grossed over $150 million worldwide against a budget of $60 million.
The social media reactions are pouring in, with many praising the film’s unique twist and deeper character exploration. As the release date approaches, the excitement is only expected to intensify, making 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple one of the most talked-about films of early 2026.
As we await more updates, fans are encouraged to keep an eye on social media for additional sneak peeks and reactions from the film’s initial screenings. The world of 28 Days Later is set to expand dramatically, and audiences will not want to miss this thrilling continuation of the saga.
Stay tuned for more urgent updates as we near the release!
