Key Highlights
- Ralph Fiennes leads the cast in “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple.”
- Nia DaCosta directs a sequel that delves into darker, more disturbing territory.
- The film focuses on Ian Kelson’s research and Spike’s involvement with Jimmy Crystal’s cult.
- DaCosta establishes the barbarity of Crystal’s group early in the film.
New Horrors: “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” Explores Dystopian Depths
“28 Years Later: The Bone Temple,” directed by Nia DaCosta, is a gritty and disturbing sequel that picks up the franchise’s exploration of societal collapse. Released on January 12, 2026, at AMC Century City 15 in Los Angeles, this film continues Danny Boyle’s legacy while taking a darker turn. Ralph Fiennes reprises his role as Dr. Ian Kelson, a man of science grappling with the moral and ethical dilemmas posed by the zombie apocalypse.
The Setting: A Haunting Landscape
Set in an eerie landscape reminiscent of both Spanish architecture and H.R. Giger’s nightmarish designs, the Bone Temple serves as the central hub of this horror franchise. Its towering bones and pyramid of skulls symbolize the human cost of the Rage virus, a legacy that has left deep scars on society. As viewers from last year’s “28 Years Later” might recall, this iconic location was first introduced by Danny Boyle but here it takes on new, unsettling meanings.
Character Dynamics: Ian and Spike
The film primarily follows three key characters: Dr. Ian Kelson, Spike, and Jimmy Crystal. While the directorial change from Boyle to DaCosta brings a fresh perspective, screenwriter Alex Garland remains at the helm, ensuring continuity with his original vision.
Fiennes delivers an intense performance as Ian, torn between scientific curiosity and moral integrity. Jack O’Connell portrays Spike, a young survivor who falls under the influence of Jimmy Crystal, a charismatic but sinister figure.
Jimmy Crystal’s pseudo-cult is a dark reflection of the hooligan Droogs from “A Clockwork Orange.” He has sworn allegiance to “Old Nick,” and his group exhibits a blend of religious fanaticism and sadistic violence. This cult serves as a central antagonistic force, embodying the worst impulses of humanity in this post-apocalyptic world.
Horror and Violence: A New Era
“28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” is notably more violent than its predecessors. The film’s opening sequence sets the tone with Spike’s initiation into Crystal’s cult, which involves brutal acts of sadism. This sequence establishes early on that Crystal and his followers are not mere hunters but nihilistic barbarians who terrorize their neighbors.
The violence in “The Bone Temple” is starkly presented, from the gratuitous torture of innocent families to the climactic crucifixion scene.
These scenes, while shocking, contribute to the film’s overall atmosphere of dread and despair. DaCosta’s direction is unflinching, pushing the boundaries of what audiences might expect in a zombie horror movie.
Conclusion
A Bold and Disturbing Sequel
Overall, “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” stands as a bold and disturbing entry in the franchise. While it may not be for everyone due to its graphic nature, it offers a stark commentary on human nature and societal collapse. Ralph Fiennes’ performance is particularly strong, bringing depth and complexity to his character’s journey.
Nia DaCosta’s direction adds a new layer of tension and horror to the series, making “The Bone Temple” a must-watch for fans of the franchise.
Reviewed at AMC Century City 15, Los Angeles, Jan. 12, 2026. MPA Rating: R. Running time: 109 min.
Production: A Sony release of a Columbia Pictures presentation of a TSG Entertainment production. Producers: Andrew Macdonald, Peter Rice, Bernard Bellew, Danny Boyle, Alex Garland. Executive producer: Cillian Murphy.
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Ralph Fiennes, Nia DaCosta, Jack O’Connell
