28 Days Later was officially released in 2002 (same year The Ring came out) in the UK and worldwide in 2003. It received critical acclaim from critics and movie goers alike. A sequel titled, “28 Weeks Later” came out in 2007 focusing on a new set of characters. I thought it was pretty good. 28 Days Later is credited for reviving the zombie genre inspiring notable directors including Edgar Wright & Robert Rodriguez to make their own zombie film. The former made a parody, “Shaun of the Dead.” The latter made “Grindhouse: Planet Terror.” Heck, even Robert Kirkman & Tony Moore were inspired by 28 Days Later creating the comic book series turned live-action television adaptation, “The Walking Dead.”
Alex Garland’s most recent work is “Men.” His next project is an epic action-drama called, “Civil War” with Kirsten Dunst. As a fan of Mr. Garland’s work, I wanna share my thoughts on 28 Days Later. I’m prepping up for Christopher Nolan’s upcoming biographical epic, “Oppenheimer” with Cillian Murphy in the title role. One more thing, check out Danny Boyle’s six-part mini-series, “Pistol” on Hulu. I’ll be selecting Horror films during October 2022.
This review contains no SPOILERS whatsoever. Feel free to read my non-spoiler article.
Healthy & Sick Aspects
Healthy: Cillian Murphy, Naomi Harris, Brendan Gleeson & Christopher Eccleston all did an excellent job for their respective performances.
Fun Fact: Ewan McGregor was considered for the role of Jim. He dropped out as he was busy filming “Star Wars: Attack of the Clones.”
Danny Boyle did a fantastic job directing the film.
Alex Garland wrote the script. He made sure everything’s according to plan.
Cinematography never suffered from technical issues. The film is shot to make it look damaged reflecting the tone. If The Criterion Collection are thinking about digitally restoring it on 4K, I’ll be the first customer to buy a Blu-Ray copy.
No CGI was used to create an isolated London. The Crew closed several sections of the city shooting scenes forty-five minutes after dawn.
Death Scenes are realistic yet brutal. They definitely don’t pull any punches.
Practial Effects were heavily involved to bring zombies to life.
John Murphy (Sunshine, The Suicide Squad, Peacemaker) orchestrated the soundtrack.
Scare Factor doesn’t rely on Jump Scares. It solely focuses on the lead characters staying alive using their skills to overcome obstacles. Whoever’s bit or drop a blood land on a person’s mouth, he/she will become a zombie from a disease called, “The Rage Virus.
28 Days Later is disturbingly relevant due to the ongoing COVID-19 epidemic. As of 2022, we’re still trying on best not getting sick.
Chemistry between Jim, Selena, Hannah & Frank serve as the main highlight. Their interactions with one another moves the story forward.
Pacing didn’t feel fast or slow. I never looked at my watch.
The film’s influenced by “Night of the Living Dead,” “Dawn of the Dead” and the video game “Resident Evil.” It’s ironic, because 28 Days Later told a better story than Paul W.S. Anderson’s Resident Evil.
The Prologue fully establishes what you’re about to see, indicates it’s gonna be a one heck of a bloody mess. If you have a weak stomach, be prepared. Bring yourself a barf bag.
Primary Themes are Survival & Disease. Both are handled maturely.
Sick: I couldn’t nothing wrong. I’m giving the Cast & Crew an Extra Point for making a flawless film as possible.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
28 Days Later is my third favorite zombie film. Shaun of the Dead is the runner-up and my all-time favorite is Zack Snyder’s “Dawn of the Dead.” If you’re a fan of zombie films, I strongly recommend 28 Days Later. Don’t forget to watch 28 Weeks Later.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 