28 Years Later Bone Temple Nia DaCosta Elevates the Zombie Franchise

The zombie apocalypse just got a lot more terrifying—and a lot more beautiful. Following last year's massive success of 28 Years Later by Danny Boyle and Alex Garland, director Nia DaCosta has pushed the boundaries even further with the direct sequel, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple. Critics are calling it a visceral masterpiece that refuses to simply retread its predecessor's steps.

28 Years Later Bone Temple Review: A Masterclass in Horror

According to Mashable, the film is a phenomenal addition to the saga. Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko praised the film for being "sublime, gorgeous, and rich in visual splendor." It doesn't just deliver gut-churning violence; it surges with a haunting sense of loss that's rare in the genre. This balance of gore and emotion has become DaCosta's signature, cementing her place as a top-tier horror director.

The film dives deep into its curious characters, including the ossuary-building Dr. Ian Kelson, played by Ralph Fiennes, and the perverse cult leader Jimmy, portrayed by Jack O'Connell. Fans are already buzzing about a specific show-stopping dance number by Fiennes that adds a layer of surreal dread to the experience.

Behind the Scenes with Nia DaCosta and Jack O'Connell

In a recent interview, DaCosta and O'Connell sat down to discuss their journey into the franchise. They shared insights into working with Boyle and how their previous work in 2025 prepared them for this ambitious sequel. 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple is now in theaters, and it's clear that the '28' franchise is more alive—and more lethal—than ever.