Danny Boyle and Jodie Comer discuss their new film 28 Years Later, a sequel to the 2002 zombie virus outbreak movie 28 Days Later. The film is set 18 years after the initial outbreak and explores themes of survival, isolation, and humanity in the face of catastrophic change.
Boyle believes that audiences are more terrified by the idea of real-world catastrophes than the horror itself. He drew inspiration from COVID-19 to create this film, which he sees as a reflection of our stagnant culture and its dangers. The film’s protagonist, Spike, learns about different ways of progressing and the importance of human connection in a world where technology can be both powerful and manipulative.
Comer praised the film’s gritty realism, with no CGI or green screen used to create the “infected” characters. She found navigating her character Isla’s emotional ebbs and flows challenging but rewarding. Boyle’s directorial style is always socially conscious, and this film is no exception, exploring themes of progress, humanity, and the importance of authentic human connections.
Reviews for 28 Years Later have been largely positive, with critics praising Comer’s performance and Boyle’s direction. The film is seen as a thought-provoking exploration of our current societal issues and the role of technology in shaping our world. As Boyle notes, horror films are a great way to confront the dangers that lie ahead, and 28 Years Later is a powerful warning about the fragility of our collective human experiences.
Boyle plans to return for the second film, with Garland again writing, and potentially appear in all three. The director’s ambition is driven by an urgent political undercurrent, reflecting his concerns about stagnant culture and its dangers.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8rpx03zxgjo