Cillian Murphy Applauds Jack O'Connell's Standout Role in The Bone Temple

Cillian Murphy, known for his role in 28 Days Later, recently shared his admiration for Jack O'Connell's portrayal of cult leader Jimmy Crystal in 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple. O'Connell, sporting a blond wig and velour tracksuit, brings a unique energy to the character. In a video posted by the film 's official Twitter, Murphy commented,

The performances are mind-blowingly good. All of them.

Producer Danny Boyle also highlighted O'Connell's work, prompting Murphy to add,

He's just magnetic. Absolutely magnetic. One of those classic characters that you love to hate, but can't actually hate, you know? Even though you should on all levels.

The Bone Temple marks a shift in the franchise 's creative team, with Nia DaCosta, known for Candyman and The Marvels, stepping in as director. However, Alex Garland, who has been with the series since the beginning, continues as the screenwriter. The cast features Ralph Fiennes returning as Dr. Ian Kelson from 28 Years Later, and Alfie Williams joins as Spike, a new member of Jimmy's cult. Williams was also named newcomer of the year for 2025. Murphy makes a brief appearance as Jim, the bike courier who survived the original outbreak in 2002's 28 Days Later.

The story doesn't end with The Bone Temple. A third installment in the 28 Years Later series is officially in development, with Garland once again handling the script. While the next film doesn't have a confirmed title or director, Danny Boyle has expressed interest in returning for the trilogy's conclusion. Murphy is also in discussions to reprise his role as Jim.

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple is set to hit theaters on January 16. For those eager for more, there are plenty of other highly anticipated horror films on the horizon this year.