Release: 2002-10-31
Runtime: 1h 53m (113 minutes)
Twenty-eight days after a killer virus was accidentally unleashed from a British research facility, a small group of London survivors are caught in a desperate struggle to protect themselves from the infected. Carried by animals and humans, the virus turns those it infects into homicidal maniacs -- and it's absolutely impossible to contain.
Watch this on:
Provided by JustWatch
Genres: Horror, Thriller, Science Fiction
Cast: Cillian Murphy, Brendan Gleeson, Naomie Harris, more
Cillian Murphy
as Jim
Brendan Gleeson
as Frank
Naomie Harris
as Selena
Megan Burns
as Hannah
Christopher Eccleston
as Major Henry West
Luke Mably
as Private Clifton
Ricci Harnett
as Corporal Mitchell
Noah Huntley
as Mark
David Schneider
as Scientist
Paul Kasey
as Featured Infected
Ray Panthaki
as Private Bedford
Leo Bill
as Private Jones
Alex Garland
Writer
Danny Boyle
Director
John Murphy
Original Music Composer
Barrie Gower
Prosthetic Makeup Artist
Gail Stevens
Casting
Gary Powell
Stunts
Rachael Fleming
Costume Design
Nick Powell
Stunt Coordinator
Glenn Freemantle
Sound Designer
Glenn Freemantle
Supervising Sound Editor
George Cottle
Stunts
Adam Dale
Aerial Camera
Twenty-eight days after a killer virus was accidentally unleashed from a British research facility, a small group of London survivors are caught in a desperate struggle to protect themselves from the infected. Carried by animals and humans, the virus turns those it infects into homicidal maniacs -- and it's absolutely impossible to contain.
His fear began when he woke up alone. His terror began when he realised he wasn't.
28 Days Later is a gripping post-apocalyptic horror film released on 1 November 2002. Directed by Danny Boyle and scripted by Alex Garland, the story follows bicycle courier Jim, portrayed by Cillian Murphy, who wakes up from a coma to find that a violent virus has devastated society.
In the film, Jim navigates a deserted London after the outbreak of a contagion that induces rage in its victims. He teams up with survivors Selena and Mark, played by Naomie Harris and Christopher Eccleston, respectively. The film's supporting cast includes Megan Burns and Brendan Gleeson.
The film was inspired by classic horror themes, drawing from George A. Romero's works and John Wyndham's novel, The Day of the Triffids. Filming took place across the UK, capturing recognizable locations like Westminster Bridge and Piccadilly Circus during quiet early morning hours, creating a hauntingly empty backdrop.
28 Days Later was a financial success, grossing over $84.6 million worldwide on a modest budget of $8 million. Critics praised its direction, performances, and dark atmosphere. Despite Boyle's assertion that it is not a traditional zombie film, 28 Days Later played a crucial role in revitalizing the zombie genre, influencing numerous films in the years that followed.
The film explores the journey of Jim and his companions as they struggle to survive amidst both the infected and unhinged humans, leading to intense and thought-provoking moments. Key scenes involve their encounters with soldiers who have their own dark agenda, ultimately culminating in a gripping conclusion that leaves viewers questioning the nature of humanity.
Notably, the story's impact was profound; during the COVID-19 pandemic, many comparisons were made between the film's deserted cities and our own reality. As the film continues to resonate, a sequel, 28 Years Later, is in development, with plans for Cillian Murphy to reprise his role.
The score, composed by John Murphy, enhances the film's atmosphere, featuring a mix of electronic and orchestral elements. The soundtrack's key tracks have also found a place in popular culture, influencing a range of media beyond the film itself.
Overall, 28 Days Later stands as a significant milestone in horror cinema, combining thrilling experiences with a poignant social commentary, ensuring its place in film history.