Sony Greenlights Third 28 Years Later Film After Electric Fan Reactions

Sony Pictures has officially approved a third 28 Years Later movie. The studio made the decision in December 2025 after seeing early audience reactions. This news comes just weeks before the sequel, The Bone Temple, hits theaters.The move signals massive confidence in the revived horror franchise. According to Deadline, the positive fan response from early screenings was a key factor. The franchise’s future is now secured well beyond the upcoming sequel.

Sequel Arrives as Franchise Hits New Momentum

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple releases on January 16, 2026. Director Nia DaCosta helms the second film in the new trilogy. The story continues the rage virus outbreak with both new and returning characters.Early screenings generated what sources describe as an electric response. This reaction prompted Sony to fast-track its plans for a third film. The greenlight is a major vote of confidence from the studio.This acceleration is unusual in the film industry. Studios typically wait for a film’s full box office performance. Sony’s early commitment shows strong internal faith in the project’s appeal.

Original Creative Team Returns for Third Installment

Writer Alex Garland is set to pen the script for the third film. Original 28 Days Later director Danny Boyle is expected to return to direct. This reunites the core creative team that launched the new trilogy in 2025.Furthermore, original star Cillian Murphy is in negotiations to return. Murphy made a surprise cameo at the end of The Bone Temple. His character Jim is poised for a significant role in the next chapter.This combination aims to blend legacy appeal with fresh narrative energy. The strategy honors the franchise’s roots while pushing the story forward. It represents a careful expansion of the cinematic universe.

Franchise Evolution from Cult Classic to Studio Priority

The original 2002 film, 28 Days Later, was a cult hit. Its 2025 sequel, 28 Years Later, successfully revived the property. Now, the franchise is evolving into a major studio priority with a planned trilogy.The Bone Temple serves as the crucial middle chapter. Its performance will likely influence the scale of the third film’s production. However, the early greenlight removes any uncertainty about the story’s continuation.Industry analysts see this as a smart long-term play. Sony is building a sustainable horror franchise for the modern era. The consistent creative team provides stability fans appreciate.

Leaked Avengers Doomsday Teaser Confirms Major X-Men MCU Arrival

The 28 Years Later franchise is now positioned for significant expansion, with studio backing ensuring this horror saga will continue to evolve and terrify audiences for years to come.

Info at your fingertips

When does 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple release?

The film is scheduled for release on January 16, 2026, in the United States. It will arrive in the United Kingdom two days earlier, on January 14, 2026.

Who is directing the third 28 Years Later movie?

Danny Boyle, who directed the first film in the new trilogy, is expected to return to direct the third installment. Alex Garland will write the screenplay.

Is Cillian Murphy returning to the franchise?

Yes, Cillian Murphy is in active negotiations to return as Jim. He appears in The Bone Temple’s climax, setting up his role for the third film.

Why did Sony greenlight the third film so early?

Sony made the decision based on extremely positive reactions from early test screenings of The Bone Temple. The studio felt confident enough to proceed before the sequel’s wide release.

What is the plot of The Bone Temple?

The film follows Spike’s journey with Jimmy Crystal’s gang on the mainland. Simultaneously, Dr. Ian Kelson makes a discovery that could change the world.

Will the third film conclude the trilogy?

While it will complete the current story arc launched in 2025, the strong franchise momentum could lead to further stories. Sony’s commitment suggests a long-term view.

Trusted Sources: Deadline, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter