A strong box office start is predicted for the film 28 Years Later: Temple of Bones

Interest in Danny Boyle's cult zombie franchise continues to grow.

Expectations for the film 28 Years Later: Temple of Bones—the continuation of the famous zombie franchise launched by Danny Boyle in the early 2000s—are rapidly intensifying. According to preliminary analyst forecasts, the film could earn over $20 million in North American theaters over the extended four-day Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend, which in 2026 falls between January 19 and 22.

For a genre project with a dark theme and an adult rating, such an opening is considered a strong indicator and suggests a high level of audience interest in the franchise.

The Second Part of the New Trilogy

28 Years Later: Temple of Bones is the second installment of the new trilogy, which began in 2024. The project reunites key creators of the original saga. The screenplay was written by Alex Garland—the writer of 28 Days Later (2002)—while Danny Boyle, the director of the cult first film, serves as producer. The new film was directed by Nia DaCosta.

Garland's return and Boyle's involvement as a producer have played a crucial role in building trust among the franchise's fans, many of whom were wary about further development of the story after the 2007 film 28 Weeks Later.

Audience Reaction and Sony's Plans

According to industry sources, Sony Pictures was pleased with the public's reaction to early fan screenings held in December in major cities across the United States and Europe. Positive audience feedback formed the basis for the decision to begin developing the third film, which is set to conclude the new trilogy.

No official announcement has been made yet, but within the studio, the project is already considered a priority.

Possible Return of Cillian Murphy

Particular interest surrounds reports of negotiations with Cillian Murphy, whose role in the first film, 28 Days Later, made his character one of the franchise's most iconic figures. According to insiders, discussions are underway regarding his return in a role, though details and the format of his potential appearance have not been disclosed.

Danny Boyle himself, during the summer press tour promoting the previous film, publicly stated his desire to personally return to the director's chair to complete the trilogy if the studio gives the project the green light.

Plot Context

The events of 28 Years Later unfold in a world where the Infected continue to exist decades after the viral outbreak depicted in 28 Weeks Later. The story focuses on new survivors forced to adapt to a reality in which humanity has been unable to fully overcome the consequences of the catastrophe.

High opening forecasts confirm that interest in the franchise has not only endured but also gained renewed momentum, and the fate of the trilogy will largely depend on the results of the upcoming opening weekend.