A Zombie film reimagined with emotion, not just horror

By Penelope Feldman

Contributing Reviewer

On June 19, I entered the theatres ready for another violent, fast-paced zombie movie. What I got instead was 28 Years Later, a cerebral, unexpected film that left me thinking more than it made me jump, and that’s exactly why it works.

As the third installment in the 28 Days Later franchise, Danny Boyle’s return to the director’s chair did not disappoint. Set almost three decades after the original outbreak of the RAGE virus, the story focuses on a fortified island community struggling to survive. It follows 12-year-old Spike and his father, Jamie, as they leave the island in hopes of Spike killing his first infected. At home, Spike’s mother, Isla, is seriously ill and opposes the trip to the mainland.

Aaron Taylor-Johnson delivers a solid performance as Jamie, but it’s Alfie Williams, who plays Spike, a newcomer and breakout star, who steals the show. This is Williams’ first major role, and he brings an unmatched vulnerability to the screen. Jodie Comer is excellent as Isla, and although Ralph Fiennes only appears briefly as Kelson, I’m still stunned by his chilling performance.

While the film is more violent than its predecessors, it’s definitely less terrifying. Don’t expect cheap jump scares or insane chase sequences. Instead, Boyle creates a quiet, emotionally layered story, not just centering on survival, but on connection.

As an avid fan of 28 Days Later, I came in expecting a bloodbath. What I didn’t expect was a film that made me rethink what the zombie genre could be. It’s not about fear anymore, it’s about what’s left when the fear fades.

This doesn’t mean it’s for everyone. If you're looking for something to keep you on the edge of your seat, this might not be it. However, if you're open to a more thoughtful, character-driven approach, 28 Years Later is well worth your attention.

It’s one of the most surprising and rewarding films of 2025, and maybe the most human zombie movie ever made.

4.5 out of 5 stars.