A terrifying new chapter arrives. “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” is now available. It hit digital streaming platforms Tuesday, February 17, 2026. This horror thriller continues the “rage virus” saga. It is a direct sequel to last year’s “28 Years Later.”
The film offers premium video on demand. You can purchase it for $24.99. Rentals cost $19.99. This grants a 48-hour viewing period.
Major platforms offer the movie. These include Prime Video and Apple TV. Fandango at Home and YouTube Movies & TV also carry it.
A Franchise Reborn
The “28 Days Later” series began in 2002. Danny Boyle directed the original film. Alex Garland wrote the screenplay. The franchise redefined the zombie horror genre. It introduced the fast-moving “rage virus.”
Boyle and Garland returned for “28 Years Later” in 2025. This set up a new trilogy. “The Bone Temple” is the second film in this new trilogy. Nia DaCosta directed this latest installment. Garland also returned as screenwriter. Boyle and Garland served as producers.
DaCosta aimed for a distinct vision. She wanted to avoid copying Boyle’s style. Her approach created a unique and personal work. The film expanded the world established by Boyle and Garland.
Plot and Characters Emerge
“28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” picks up immediately after its predecessor. The story follows Spike. He is a teenager still navigating the dangerous mainland. Spike was rescued by a cult. This group is known as the “Jimmys.” They are led by the charismatic but psychopathic Sir Lord Jimmy Crystal. Crystal styles himself after disgraced TV presenter Jimmy Savile.
Spike is initiated into the cult. This involves a brutal fight. He is renamed “Jimmy” by Crystal. He joins other members like Jimmy Ink and Jimmima. The Jimmys are known for their violence. They terrorize survivors.
Meanwhile, Dr. Ian Kelson is a central figure. Ralph Fiennes portrays the doctor. Kelson is a former GP. He dedicates himself to memorializing virus victims. He builds “The Bone Temple.” This is an ossuary made of human skulls. He also conducts experiments. He studies the “Alpha” infected, Samson. Kelson’s work leads to shocking discoveries. These concern the infected and humanity.
Kelson forms an unlikely relationship with Samson. This connection has world-changing consequences. The film explores cultism, trauma, and survival.
Cast and Crew Spotlight
Ralph Fiennes embodies Dr. Kelson. His performance is noted for its depth. Jack O’Connell plays Sir Lord Jimmy Crystal. He is praised for his chilling charisma. Alfie Williams returns as Spike. Erin Kellyman appears as Jimmy Ink. Chi Lewis-Parry is Samson, the Alpha infected. Emma Laird plays Jimmima.
Director Nia DaCosta brought a fresh perspective. She aimed for a “tonal tightrope walk.” Her work is described as brutal and bold. Critics note her distinctive style. It is both forceful and uncompromised.
Franchise Legacy and Future
“28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” expands the “28 Days Later” universe. It continues to explore the “rage virus.” The virus turns people into vicious, raging killers. It spread rapidly, causing societal collapse.
The film is the fourth in the series. It was shot back-to-back with “28 Years Later.” This allowed for a quick release.
Early reactions highlight the film’s brutality and originality. Critics praise DaCosta’s direction. They call it a “beautifully chaotic” and “bracingly weird” film. It’s also noted for its surprising humor.
Some reviews mention a jarring shift in tone and visual style. However, many found it to be a worthy continuation.
Cillian Murphy makes a surprise return. He reprises his role as Jim. His appearance sets up a planned third film. This confirms the trilogy’s continuation. The “28 Years Later” trilogy is a significant event in horror cinema. The “rage virus” remains a potent symbol. It represents both biological terror and human nature’s darker impulses. The franchise continues to evolve. It keeps audiences on edge with its intense new releases.
