‘28 Days Later’ Sequel: Release Date, Cast, Plot & Everything We Know So Far

Fans of fast-infected zombies have reason to celebrate: 28 Days Later is sprinting back into cinemas for a one-night engagement on Wednesday, May 21, complete with an exclusive five-minute preview of Danny Boyle’s long-awaited sequel, 28 Years Later. Tickets are already live on Fandango, and participating theaters report brisk sales as horror devotees rush to relive the 2002 classic on the big screen and catch their first official look at the next chapter of the Rage-virus saga. What the sneak peek reveals • Director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland reunite for the sequel, marking their first joint return to the franchise since the original film ignited modern zombie cinema 23 years ago. • The footage showcases desolate U.K. cityscapes reclaimed by nature, a new, faster strain of infection and a tense rescue sequence led by Jodie Comer. • Glimpses of co-stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jack O’Connell, Ralph Fiennes and newcomer Alfie Williams confirm an ensemble survival narrative, while an off-camera voice strongly suggests a cameo from original star Cillian Murphy. Key release details Sony Pictures has staked out a June 20, 2025 worldwide theatrical date for 28 Years Later, positioning the film at the start of summer blockbuster season. Industry insiders indicate the sequel is envisioned as the opening chapter of a new trilogy, with Boyle committed to direct the first installment before handing the reins to other filmmakers for parts two and three. Why the franchise matters in 2025 • Cultural relevance: The original film’s grainy DV aesthetic and kinetic infected pre-dated Rage-inducing real-world anxieties about pandemics and societal collapse, themes that resonate even more sharply post-2020. • Box-office potential: Re-releases of legacy horror titles—most recently the 50th anniversary of The Exorcist—have proven lucrative stopgaps for exhibitors between tentpoles. • Streaming synergy: 28 Days Later is trending on Hulu, Netflix and Prime rental charts, indicating fresh viewer interest ahead of the sequel drop. How to watch the re-release Check local listings via Fandango or participating chains such as AMC, Regal and Alamo Drafthouse. Each screening includes: 1. A remastered 4K presentation of 28 Days Later with its original alt-rock soundtrack intact. 2. A five-minute “first look” at 28 Years Later featuring cast introductions and director commentary. 3. A collectible mini-poster available while supplies last. What’s next after the sneak peek? Expect a full theatrical trailer to arrive online during the first week of June, just as advanced ticket sales for 28 Years Later accelerate. Meanwhile, fan forums speculate that Boyle’s new cut may finally reconcile the original film’s divergent U.K. and U.S. endings, perhaps hinting at plot threads revived in the upcoming sequel. Bottom line Whether you’re revisiting the deserted streets of London or gearing up for an even larger outbreak, May 21 offers a rare chance to experience 28 Days Later with a live audience and be among the first to witness the dawn of 28 Years Later. Grab your tickets, secure your running shoes, and prepare for another blood-pounding sprint through the apocalypse.