“28 Years Later” Movie Review: What Happens When You Cross Zombies with Brexit?

Danny Boyle is back—and this time, he’s armed with iPhones, post-Brexit metaphors, and a whole new breed of creepers in 28 Years Later. If you thought the rage virus saga had fizzled out, think again. This third installment drags us kicking and screaming back into Britain’s undead quarantine zone—but with a strangely soulful, occasionally messy flair.

A Time Jump with Baggage

It’s been nearly three decades since 28 Days Later made us terrified of fast zombies. Now, 28 Years Later doesn’t just look at infection—it stares down isolation, masculinity, and mortality. The story follows a small survivalist community on Holy Island, connected to the mainland only during low tide. Twelve-year-old Spike and his rugged dad Jamie live like medieval warriors. But when mum Isla falls ill, Spike sets out on a journey that’s half apocalyptic, half heartwarming.

Wait, Zombies Still Run?

Yup. Some of the infected are still Olympic sprinters. But there’s a twist—Boyle introduces “Slow-Lows,” the sad, sluggish undead crawling around like they missed the apocalypse memo. It’s equal parts grotesque and oddly tragic.

What’s This Movie Really About?

Let’s get real. It’s not just another survival horror. Under the blood, guts, and spinal cords being ripped out, this film questions macho culture, blind loyalty, and nationalism. The underlying trauma of Brexit looms large—the U.K. is completely quarantined from Europe, and metaphorically, from reality.

A Visual Rollercoaster (With Shaky Moments)

Most of the movie is shot on iPhones. Artsy? Sure. But it also makes the film feel raw and, at times, all over the place. Boyle’s signature energy is there, but so is a bit of chaos. Think: documentary-style intensity meets grungy YouTube vlog.

Meet the Survivors

• Alfie Williams as Spike is fresh and loveable.
• Aaron Taylor-Johnson gives major macho-dad energy.
• Jodie Comer is haunting as the delusional, bedridden mother who calls her son “Daddy” (yes, really).
• Ralph Fiennes pops up as a cryptic, orange-hued doctor with a flair for fires.
• Edvin Ryding adds NATO-flavored drama after washing ashore.

Should You Watch It?

If you’re into films that mix zombie guts with existential dread, this one’s for you. 28 Years Later may not win awards for tight storytelling, but it’s definitely not your average horror flick. It’s introspective, oddly poetic, and brave enough to resist blockbuster polish. Just don’t expect it to tie everything up neatly.

Final Verdict:

Rating: ★★☆☆☆

Vibe: Gritty chaos meets emotional core

Watch for: More symbolism, less structure

Avoid if: You want a clean plot or, you know, sleep tonight

P.S.

This isn’t the end. 28 Days Later: The Bone Temple is already filmed and drops next year. Rage, apparently, is the franchise that just won’t die.