'28 Years Later' Moves Ahead at Sony as Third Film Eyes Cillian Murphy's Return

Sony is moving ahead with plans for a third film in the '28 Years Later' series after strong fan reactions to early screenings of the second movie, '28 Years Later: The Bone Temple.' The film is directed by Nia DaCosta and is set to release over Martin Luther King Jr. weekend on 16th January 2026. The third entry in the new trilogy has not yet been given an official title.

Cillian Murphy Might Return in '28 Years Later' Next Instalment

Industry buzz suggests that Cillian Murphy, who returns to the franchise in 'The Bone Temple,' is in talks to appear again in the third film. Original franchise writer Alex Garland is reportedly working on the script. Murphy also serves as an executive producer on both '28 Years Later' films. The Oscar-winning actor is represented by CAA and Sloane, Offer, Weber and Dern.

Image Courtesy: IGN India

When Sony secured the rights to the '28 Years Later' trilogy, the studio included an option for a third movie but initially held off on approving it. Instead, the first two films were shot back-to-back, with Danny Boyle returning to direct the first instalment and DaCosta taking over directing duties for the second. Boyle has previously said he would like to direct the third film, and there is optimism that he may return.

Also Read: https://indigomusic.com/pop-cultures/whats-up-pop-news/supergirl-trailer-debuts-milly-alcock-as-a-bold-imperfect-new-hero-10903900

About '28 Years Later' Franchise

'28 Years Later' debuted in June with a $30 million opening, making it one of the strongest horror launches in a crowded year. The film went on to earn $70.4 million domestically and $151.3 million worldwide, becoming the highest-grossing movie in the franchise. The series began in 2002 with '28 Days Later,' directed by Boyle and written by Garland, followed by 2007's '28 Weeks Later.'

Image Courtesy: IMDb

Across all three films, the British horror franchise has earned close to $300 million globally. The story is set in a dystopian future where the infected battle what remains of humanity, which is shown to be deeply divided in 'The Bone Temple.'

Fan excitement was especially loud during a recent screening at the AMC Century City theatre in Los Angeles, where reactions were overwhelmingly enthusiastic. Early social media responses praised DaCosta's direction and highlighted standout performances from Jack O'Connell and Ralph Fiennes, noting the film's intense tone and bold storytelling.

Sony declined to comment on the latest developments surrounding the third film.

Also Read: https://indigomusic.com/pop-cultures/whats-up-pop-news/johnny-depps-first-japan-visit-in-8-years-leaves-him-emotionally-moved-10904033