by Rosa Parra
This film is set 28 years after the initial virus outbreak, showcasing how society has evolved and adapted to this new way of life. Directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland, “28 Years Later” features Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ralph Fiennes, Alfie Williams, and Christopher Fulford in the cast.
I hadn’t revisited the previous two installments in a while, so I approached this entry mostly blind, having only seen the trailer once. I expected a typical zombie horror thriller, but instead, I experienced a brilliantly crafted social commentary driven by an emotional story that reflects on life and death.
Let’s begin with the acting! Alfie Williams as Spike was a revelation; he single-handedly carries the film, and not once does he falter. Jodie Comer and Aaron Taylor-Johnson, as Isla and Jaime (Spike’s parents), were also brilliant! I gauge actors’ performances by how quickly or effectively I can forget that I’m watching the actors and instead see the characters. This shift happened for me with Ralph Fiennes as well. His character is memorable due to his significant role in the film—a doctor who adapts to his surroundings and refuses to leave, yet cannot ignore the death that surrounds him. He spends much of his time honoring the deceased by building piles of bones, which one might say keeps him connected to his profession, as he cares for those who have passed and pays tribute to every human being that once was.
This is exactly what I mean! The story has so much depth and substance that it left me perplexed. An island has remained isolated from the mainland by a causeway that is only visible during low tides. We see how this community has managed to shield themselves from a virus and are trained to eliminate it if they come across one. The mother-son dynamic doesn’t fully reveal itself until the second half of the film, while the father-son relationship is introduced at the beginning. Ultimately, we witness the son’s coming-of-age journey as he faces the realities of life and learns how to navigate his circumstances to survive. The story works well because the script allows the environment to shine, giving us a clear understanding of the scenery and locations where the events unfold.
In addition to phenomenal performances, engaging storylines, and stunning scenery, the filmmaking itself shines through, enhancing the thrill and chaos of it all. The fast-paced editing can initially feel disorienting; however, it’s clear that this is intentional, designed to give viewers a glimpse of what the characters are experiencing. The switch between first-person and third-person viewpoints also adds to the intensity and suspense. Additionally, the aerial shots are breathtaking. They not only provide a broader perspective of the environment but also evoke feelings of unease and uncertainty.
Overall, “28 Years Later” is more than just a zombie horror thriller; it serves as a thoughtful exploration of society, coming of age, and mortality. This film is expertly paced and executed, making it my favorite movie of the year.
Rating: 9.5/10