28 Years Later: The Bone Temple Stuns Early Audiences With Grit and Power
Early reactions to '28 Years Later: The Bone Temple' praise its bold vision and standout performances, with many already calling it a top contender for movie of the year. Discover what makes this post-apocalyptic sequel a must-watch event.
Just days into the new year, a wave of excitement is building around the upcoming horror sequel, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple. Early viewers are already hailing it as a standout film, with some even declaring it their top pick for the year. Social media is buzzing with praise, as one user, @ragingmotelfire, shared, "Idc that 2026 just started _Bone Temple_ is my movie of the year! Nia DaCosta is a brilliant director and proves why Danny Boyle handpicked her to direct! Jack O’Connell and Ralph Fiennes put in some career-best performances & I couldn’t be prouder! I can’t wait to watch it again!"
Critics are echoing the enthusiasm. Ross Bonaime from Collider highlighted the film’s ability to explore the depths of humanity in a world turned upside down, while also diving into the origins and impact of the virus. He singled out Ralph Fiennes and Jack O’Connell for their unforgettable performances, saying,
“28 Years Later: The Bone Temple is incredible. Really explores the idea of humanity in a world gone to hell in stunning fashion while also delving into the virus itself. Ralph Fiennes is tremendous. Jack O’Connell terrifying. I was grinning like an idiot for the last 20 minutes.”
Critical Acclaim and Standout Performances
Other early reactions have called the film "the first summer blockbuster arrived in January," and "the darkest of the series." The movie is being described as "Bold. Bombastic. Brazen," and some are even calling it "one of the best horror sequels of the century." Jack O’Connell’s portrayal of Jimmy Crystal is drawing particular attention, with viewers noting that he delivers an even more chilling villain than his previous roles, despite not playing a supernatural character this time around.
Director Nia DaCosta, who takes the reins from Danny Boyle, is receiving high marks for her vision and execution. @BrandonDavisBD commented,
I watched 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple and it is REALLY GOOD. Nia DaCosta does a phenomenal job honoring the gritty 28 horrors. O’Connell is haunting & darkly funny. Ruthless & violent, especially early before heart creeps in. This felt more in line with Days than Years did.
A New Chapter in a Legendary Franchise
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple is directed by Nia DaCosta, written by Alex Garland, and stars Ralph Fiennes, Jack O'Connell, Alfie Williams, Erin Kellyman, and Chi Lewis-Parry. The film is set to hit theaters on January 16, 2026, and a third installment is already in the works.
The official synopsis teases a fresh twist on the world first created by Danny Boyle and Alex Garland. Dr. Kelson, played by Ralph Fiennes, finds himself in a shocking new relationship that could have world-altering consequences. Meanwhile, Spike, portrayed by Alfie Williams, faces a nightmare encounter with Jimmy Crystal, played by Jack O’Connell. In this chapter, the infected are no longer the only threat—survivors themselves may prove to be even more dangerous and unpredictable.