Exclusive Fan Event for "28 Years Later" Brings Fans Closer to the Franchise
ScreenRant held an exciting fan event at Regal Union Square in collaboration with Sony Pictures and Regal, showcasing the highly anticipated sequel, "28 Years Later." The event featured a lengthy preview of the film, making it the most in-depth look fans have had at the project thus far. Hosted by ScreenRant's Liam Crowley, the night included a Q&A session with director Danny Boyle and stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Jodie Comer, followed by a screening of the original cult classic, "28 Days Later."
After two decades, Boyle returns to the director's chair, having earned an Academy Award for Best Director for "Slumdog Millionaire" since the release of the first film. Taylor-Johnson and Comer arrive in this universe following acclaimed performances in "Nosferatu" and "The Bikeriders," respectively. Crowley guided the conversation focusing on the trio's connection with the original film, the right timing for a sequel, and insights into the characters Jamie and Isla.
Reviving a Franchise Through New Storytelling
Plans for a sequel to "28 Days Later" have been in discussion since the early 2010s. However, momentum truly gained traction when writer Alex Garland proposed a trilogy format. Boyle reflected on their conversations, stating, "When you make films, it doesn't matter whether they're successful or not, they all fade gradually as they should, but some of them occasionally stick. The first one just seemed to resonate with people still. What Alex and I began talking about was, 'Should we do something additional to it?'"
The forthcoming narrative, while still largely undisclosed, promises to unfold over three films, beginning with "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple," scheduled for release in January. This ambitious storytelling approach seeks to explore a broader arc while allowing each film to stand on its own.
New Characters with Roots in the Original Film
Despite the leading roles being filled by newcomers, Taylor-Johnson and Comer possess personal connections to the original film. Comer shared that although she was young when "28 Days Later" was released, the emotional impact it had on her shaped her understanding of character-driven storytelling in film. "It was so original, so heightened, and had this element of terror and fear, but ultimately be about human connection and character focus, that really struck me," Comer noted.
Further reflecting on their personal experiences, Taylor-Johnson added, "I was probably about 11 or 12 at the time when that came out, which was kind of interesting to bring that into this movie because both Isla and Jamie were teenagers at the time of this event. It’s beautiful how that informs the adult self, carrying that sort of trauma into this was so interesting."
As for their characters, Comer described Isla's arc as one that reveals deep connections with her son, Spike, and possibly her past with the setting. "The relationship she has with Spike is really quite beautiful," she suggested. Taylor-Johnson complemented this by indicating Jamie's complex character development, where he embodies the moral ambiguities necessary for survival in their new world.
From Pandemic Themes to Innovative Filmmaking
As part of the event, Boyle shared insights on how the global pandemic influenced the storytelling of "28 Years Later." He articulated how the reactions to crises like COVID-19 might mirror human behaviors depicted in the film. He noted how behaviors evolve over time, hinting that unlike the heightened panic in the first film, the characters in the sequel have acclimated to their reality, showcasing a different social dynamic. "28 Years Later grabs the essence of progression. You'll see a causeway island where they live in intense isolation, having made choices about how they want to live, which adds depth to their journey," Boyle explained.
Boyle's anecdotes about the original film’s title, which faced challenges due to potential confusion with Sandra Bullock's film, added a humorous touch to the evening. He described how the common use of a return policy for goods contributed to the choice of title, providing nostalgic context for an audience that may not grasp this reference today.
Audience Anticipation and Future Releases
The event concluded with the showcasing of the film's intense trailer, leaving the audience eager for the full-length feature. The visceral, gripping visuals hinted at a logical progression of the story that both fans and newcomers alike can anticipate. With a theatrical release scheduled for June 20, anticipation is high as "28 Years Later" prepares to introduce a new generation to this chilling universe.
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