Posted by 23 Years after the cultural phenomenon and smash hit 28 Days Later comes 28 Years Later. This is the third film in the series and the long gestation period, the idea was first floated in 2007, sees Danny Boyle return to the directors chair and Alex Garland with pen back in hand. In what promises to be the first of three films, this one is aptly set 28 years after the rage virus outbreak.
The virus has been wiped out of Europe but at the price of Britain, which is isolated, quarantined and guarded by Naval vessels. The mainland is swarming with the infected but survivors have created a community on Holy Island. This community gives off folk horror vibes and is where 12 year old Spike (Alfie Williams), his dad Jamie (a rough and tough Aaron Taylor-Johnson) and his mum (a confused yet headstrong Jodie Comer) live.
Spike ventures out into the rugged and overgrown British mainland with his dad, in a brutal coming of age ritual. This is where the tension and adrenaline rises, as we meet the infected in all their fat, gangly, slobbery and menacing forms. Alfie Williams shines in this flick and shows a talent far beyond his 14 years. From there things take a turn as spike starts to question his dad, worry about his mum’s health and seek answers. His quest for answers sees him meeting the well to do, intelligent, but slightly odd Dr Kelson, as played by Ralph Fiennes.
This is a taut and emotive drama that, despite the fall of society around them, is a personal journey of tumult and discovery. It is a stylish and dark flick with a subtle sense of humour that touches on British history, society, rural life and even Brexit (an isolated island, anyone?). It keeps the similar visual style of the original – with this one shot on iPhones – which adds to the claustrophobia and sense of terror waiting round every corner. Although for those expecting a proper horror it’s disturbing but not scary and the ending, whilst funny and unexpected, feels a bit jarring and power rangers-esque.
28 Years is a great movie and the sequel that 28 Days deserved.
8/10
Lofty Music and Film 