28 Years Later Sequel Box Office Projection Hits $30M Mark

The highly anticipated horror sequel, “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple,” is generating major buzz. Industry trackers have released their first official box office forecast for its domestic debut. The film is scheduled to hit theaters across North America on January 16, 2026.

This projection offers the first concrete glimpse at the film’s commercial potential. It follows the surprising success of the franchise-reviving “28 Years Later” earlier this year. According to Box Office Pro, the numbers look promising for the new installment.

Strong Opening Weekend Forecast for Franchise Follow-Up

According to Box Office Pro’s long-range forecast, “The Bone Temple” is expected to open strong. Their analysis projects an opening weekend gross between $20 million and $30 million in North America. This range indicates significant audience interest is already building.

This would place the sequel in a solid position for a January release. The month is often a testing ground for genre films. A debut at the higher end of this scale would be considered a major success.

How the Sequel Stacks Up Against Its Predecessor

The previous film, “28 Years Later,” opened to a robust $30 million domestically. It went on to earn over $150 million globally. The new film’s projection suggests it could match or come very close to that initial benchmark.

This performance would make it the franchise’s biggest or second-biggest opening ever. The original “28 Days Later” opened to $10.06 million in 2002. “28 Weeks Later” debuted with $9.8 million back in 2007.

A New Director Guides the Post-Apocalyptic Story

While Danny Boyle returned to direct “28 Years Later,” he has passed the baton for this sequel. Filmmaker Nia DaCosta, known for “Candyman” and “The Marvels,” has taken over directing duties. This shift brings a fresh perspective to the virus-ravaged world.

The story continues after the events of the 2025 film. It follows a character named Spike, played by Jack O’Connell, who joins a gang in a broken Britain. Meanwhile, Dr. Ian Kelson, portrayed by Ralph Fiennes, pursues a relationship with major ramifications.

The initial box office projection for “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” confirms strong market confidence. If it meets the high end of its forecast, the sequel will prove the revived franchise has enduring power. All eyes will be on the domestic box office when the film arrives next January.

Thought you’d like to know

What is “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” projected to earn opening weekend?

Industry tracker Box Office Pro forecasts an opening between $20 million and $30 million at the North American box office. The final number will depend on marketing momentum and critical reviews as the release date nears.

How does this compare to the previous film’s opening?

“28 Years Later” opened to $30 million domestically earlier this year. The new film’s projection shows it is on track to deliver a very similar, potentially matching, debut performance.

Who is directing the new sequel?

Nia DaCosta is directing “The Bone Temple,” taking over from Danny Boyle. Boyle directed the 2025 franchise revival but served as a producer on this follow-up project.

When is the movie being released?

The film is scheduled for a wide theatrical release on January 16, 2026. This positions it in the early part of the year, which can be a strong period for genre films.

Who stars in the new film?

The cast includes Ralph Fiennes, Jack O’Connell, and Erin Kellyman in key roles. They lead the story in a post-apocalyptic Britain still grappling with the Rage Virus.