28 Years Later Part II: Director Nia DaCosta Reveals Key Script Change

The long-awaited sequel to the genre-defining horror classic is charging ahead, with a new director at the helm bringing a visceral vision to the infected wasteland. Following the summer release of 28 Years Later, the creative team is deep into production on the next chapter, officially titled 28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple. In a recent revelation, director Nia DaCosta has shared a crucial change she insisted upon for the screenplay, promising to amplify the franchise’s signature terror.

Scheduled for a theatrical release on January 16, 2026, the film continues the story initiated by original creators Danny Boyle and Alex Garland. While Boyle directed the first installment of the new trilogy, he passed the directorial baton for the sequel to Nia DaCosta, known for her work on Candyman and The Marvels.

How Will 28 Years Later Part II Differ From the First Film?

The most significant difference audiences can expect is a heightened presence of the franchise’s iconic rage-infected creatures. At a recent appearance during the Edinburgh International Film Festival, DaCosta praised screenwriter Alex Garland for delivering a rock-solid script, a factor she noted was crucial for a smooth production. However, she revealed her primary creative contribution was a direct request to Garland for more infected characters throughout the narrative. This move signals a deliberate intent to return to the relentless, pulse-pounding tension that made the original 28 Days Later so groundbreaking, ensuring the sequel delivers on the horror elements fans crave.

DaCosta’s approach highlights a collaborative yet distinct vision for the project. She acknowledged inheriting a strong foundation from Boyle, including key cast members and some locations, but was given significant creative leeway to develop new elements and shape the film’s visual language, which differs from Boyle’s renowned stylistic choices.

Building a New Chapter on a Solid Foundation

The production of The Bone Temple benefits from a robust framework that earlier projects in DaCosta’s career lacked. She explicitly contrasted this experience with her past work, noting that a watertight script from an expert like Garland prevents the “havoc” that can derail a film’s production. This stability, combined with a reported budget in the $60 million range from Sony Pictures, provides the resources necessary to realize the film’s ambitious scope. The project is produced by Boyle, Garland, and original producer Andrew Macdonald, ensuring continuity with the franchise’s roots.

While the first sequel, 28 Years Later, garnered a mixed critical reception and a global box office take of $150 million, the commitment to a full trilogy indicates strong studio faith. The performance of The Bone Temple will likely determine the greenlight for a potential third film, which could see Danny Boyle return to direct.

The highly anticipated sequel 28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple is poised to unleash a new wave of chaos, driven by a director’s clear vision for amplified horror and a script honed for maximum impact. This combination of foundational expertise and fresh perspective aims to recapture the raw intensity of the original while propelling the story forward into terrifying new territory. Mark your calendars for January 16, 2026.

Must Know

What is the release date for 28 Years Later Part II?
28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple is scheduled to be released in theatres on January 16, 2026. The film is the second installment in a planned new trilogy.

Who is directing 28 Years Later Part II?
Nia DaCosta is directing the sequel. She took over the director’s chair from Danny Boyle, who directed the first film, 28 Years Later. Boyle remains a producer on the project.

Did the director change the script for the sequel?
Yes, director Nia DaCosta requested that screenwriter Alex Garland write more infected characters into the script. She praised Garland’s initial screenplay but felt increasing the number of infected was a key contribution to heighten the film’s horror elements.

Is the original cast returning for The Bone Temple?
While specific casting details are under wraps, DaCosta has confirmed she “inherited an amazing cast,” suggesting several key actors from 28 Years Later will reprise their roles for the sequel.

What is the budget for the new 28 Years Later movies?
Each film in the new trilogy, produced by Sony Pictures, has a budget estimated to be around $60 million. The first film, 28 Years Later, was made with a budget of $75 million.