Danny Boyle discusses 28 Years Later as a British response to Brexit, saying the highly anticipated sequel reflects the nation’s reaction and a turn towards traditional values. The director, known for leading the 28 Days Later franchise, emphasized his new film’s British focus and deeper context in light of recent social changes.
New Chapter in the Post-Apocalyptic Series
The film is the third installment of the well-known post-apocalyptic saga, beginning with 28 Days Later, and this entry launches a fresh trilogy. Set decades after the initial outbreak of the rage virus, the story centers on a group of survivors based on a remote island, charting how life has changed in the aftermath of devastation. Boyle returns as director, ensuring continuity while steering the narrative in a new direction.
Boyle’s Reflections on Brexit and British Identity
Speaking with The Sunday Times, Danny Boyle explained the larger meaning behind the sequel, framing the project within the context of post-Brexit Britain and its renewed interest in older values. He said,
“It’s not a political film, but when we started work on this, it came after Brexit and that retrenchment to older values, and you cannot help but think that this film is a response to that,”
—Danny Boyle, Director
Boyle highlighted the importance of British themes, both in content and cast, noting,
“The film is full of British actors, and our obsessions.”
—Danny Boyle, Director
Considering the film‘s international appeal, he openly questioned its resonance outside the UK:
“I cannot imagine what the Americans are going to make of it. Obviously you’d love it to be a hit there, because they’ve given us the money, but really? We’ve made the film for here, my homeland.”
—Danny Boyle, Director
Examining Today’s Society Through Film
Reflecting on the parallels between current events and the film’s story, Boyle compared present-day humanity to the rage-driven creatures depicted in the franchise. He commented on modern intolerance and expressed hope for a return to valuing public servants such as teachers and doctors, rather than simply idolizing technology and its creators. This perspective aligns with contemporary discussions about what truly drives societal progress.
Boyle’s views highlight the role of individual responsibility in maintaining optimism and moral values, adding,
“But you have to take personal responsibility to try and keep a spirit alive. There’s this great Embrace song called ‘All You Good Good People’, and I still have this belief in good. Progress isn’t based solely on technology, but on soul. My mother brought me up to believe that, and younger generations seem like they are actually better people than we were.”
—Danny Boyle, Director
A Star-Studded Cast and Ambitious Plans
28 Years Later brings together a notable cast including Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Ralph Fiennes. Cillian Murphy, recognized for his earlier role, will serve as executive producer and is set to appear in the broader trilogy. The movie is scheduled for release later in June, with a sequel titled 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, directed by Nia DaCosta, already planned for next year. Notably, the film’s trailer quickly became 2024’s most-watched in the horror genre and ranks as the second most popular horror trailer ever, signaling strong anticipation and cultural impact.
Danny Boyle’s approach offers insight into how British filmmakers are engaging with major societal changes through cinema, promising a film that both entertains and encourages reflection on national identity and values.
