28 YEARS LATER: THE BONE TEMPLE -- Nia DaCosta Delivers a Satisfying Continuation

Review by Chadd Clubine

Was 18 years too long for a follow-up to 28 Weeks Later? Good thing you don’t have to wait too long for 2025’s follow-up to 28 Years Later. Shot back-to-back, the sequel in this new trilogy comes out only seven months after the latest installment. The latest film premiered early last month, and fans have claimed it as one of the best in the series. It gave the studio the confidence to start work on the third entry in this trilogy, and it makes sense why. While the film’s pacing or structure isn’t as strong, it’s still filled with powerhouse performances, effective scares, and meaningful themes.

Continuing from where the last one ended, this one wastes no time getting you right into the story. Nia DaCosta, known for her work on Candyman (2021) and The Marvels, takes over as director and establishes her own vision, while honoring Danny Boyle's work. Writer Alex Garland returns with new thematic material that deepens the world established in last year’s entry. Where Jack O’Connell’s villainous performance leans into the darkness of this new world, Ralph Fiennes’ character offers a counterpoint with hope. This thematic balance will give viewers something to connect with and something they can think about long after the credits roll.
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The film balances these two stories from O’Connell’s & Fiennes’ perspectives, leading into an unpredictable third act that comes together nicely; however, the buildup to it feels conflicting. While both stories are great in their own right, the way the film cuts between them can disrupt the momentum. Just as one story gets going, the film suddenly cuts to the other, making the first half's structure confusing and unclear about where the story is going. On top of that, the pacing is much slower than in the latest installment. While many may call this film slow-burning, its approach makes its themes stand out more.

​Once the stories connect, the film really stands out. The film’s themes clash, offering a rich exploration of how two completely different ways of living could work in such a broken world. Ralph Fiennes is given a lot more to do here, which makes his introduction in the last film necessary. Jack O’Connell is terrific as the antagonistic lead. The two leads deliver some of the year's most memorable performances so far. Where Alfie Williams doesn’t have as much to do compared to the last film, the film’s conclusion not only makes you excited for what’s to come, but also pieces together how this trilogy can stick the landing.
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It may feel like the studio got too excited about this and released it too early. As successful as the last one was, it was also released during the summer. It will be interesting to see how this one performs at the box office. Fans will, no doubt, be excited for what’s going to come, but could also be disappointed if the next one never comes to light. Nonetheless, Nia DaCosta still offers a new perspective on this franchise that works across performances, story, and visuals, and manages to stand out on its own.

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple is in theaters January 16.

Rating: 4/5