One of the most talked about theoretical sequels in Hollywood has just become a reality, after the breaking news thatDanny BoyleandAlex Garlandare teaming up on a sequel to28 Days Later— and it may not be restricted to just one movie. The pair are reuniting for28 Years Later, a new zombie thriller that is expected to hit studios, streamers, and other potential buyers later this week, according toThe Hollywood Reporter.
Boyle is attached to the project as the director, at least for the first film in the prospective trilogy, whileGarland is attached as the writer of all three. The budget for each movie will be around $75 million, according to the report, while the duo would take on production roles, alongsideAndrew Macdonald,the original producer, andPeter Rice, who previously led Fox Searchlight Pictures. Fox Searchlight, a subdivision of the former Twentieth Century Fox studio, initially supported the production of both the original British film and its sequel.
The original film starredCillian Murphyas a man who awakens from a coma only to find the world empty and ravaged by a zombie apocalypse. The film, both a critical and commercial hit, inspired the creation of a sequel,28 Weeks Later. However, Murphy did not reprise his role in this sequel. In terms of financial performance,28 Weeks Latergrossed $65.8 million against its $15 million budget, whereas28 Days Laterhad a more substantial return of $84.6 million from an $8 million budget. This discrepancy in box office success played a role in delaying the production of another sequel. Additionally,Garland, the writer of28 Days Later, was not pleased with28 Weeks Lateras he was not part of its production.
Will Cillian Murphy Return for ‘28 Years Later’?
Murphy, who is sure to be in high demand after his acclaimed turn inChristopher Nolan’sOppenheimer,told Collider back in Julythat he would “love” to be part of a sequel to28 Days Later. While he hasn’t been confirmed for the new trilogy yet, he said:
“I was talking to Danny Boyle recently, and I said, “Danny, we shot the movie at the end of 2000.” So I think we’re definitely approaching the28 Years Later. But like I’ve always said, I’m up for it. I’d love to do it. If Alex [Garland] thinks there’s a script in it and Danny wants to do it, I’d love to do it.”
Collider will have more news on28 Years Laterwhen it becomes available.
28 Days Later
Four weeks after a mysterious, incurable virus spreads throughout the UK, a handful of survivors try to find sanctuary.
Watch on Prime Video
