Danny Boyle and Alex Garland Team Up for ’28 Years Later’

Renowned director Danny Boyle and acclaimed writer Alex Garland, the creative minds behind the 2002 horror hit “28 Days Later,” are set to collaborate once again for the highly anticipated sequel, “28 Years Later.” Excitingly, this could mark the beginning of a potential trilogy.

Breaking the news, THR reveals that the new zombie thriller is poised to make its rounds among studios, streamers, and potential buyers shortly. WME, representing Boyle and Garland, will handle the package and oversee the sale process.

The franchise initially saw a sequel in 2007 with “28 Weeks Later,” where Boyle and Garland served as executive producers, while Juan Carlos Fresnadillo directed. Now, they aim to embark on a fresh trilogy with “28 Years Later.” Garland is slated to pen all three installments, with Boyle taking the reins for the inaugural chapter.

Joining forces in production are Boyle, Garland, original producer Andrew Macdonald, and Peter Rice, the former head of Fox Searchlight Pictures. This division of the once Twentieth Century Fox-backed the original film and its sequel.

The original “28 Days Later” featured Cillian Murphy as a man awakening from a coma to a desolate, post-apocalyptic England, ravaged by a virus that transforms its victims into relentless killers. Navigating this harrowing landscape, he encounters a survivor portrayed by Naomie Harris and a menacing army major played by Christopher Eccleston.

The decision to pursue a sequel aligns with Boyle and Garland’s prior expressions of interest in extending the franchise. Boyle, in particular, shared his inclination two years ago during an anniversary screening of “28 Days Later,” stating, “I’d be very tempted [to direct it].” He highlighted the script’s focus on England and noted the current challenges faced by the film industry, suggesting that a compelling sequel could draw audiences back to cinemas.

While specific plot details for “28 Years Later” are yet to be revealed, anticipation builds for this next chapter in the zombie saga. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting development.