Columbia Pictures, DNA Films, British Film Institute and Decibel Films’ 28 Years Later (dubbed from the Hollywood film of the same name; A) is the story a father and son, living on an island, who discover the secrets, wonders and horrors of the outside world. Twenty-eight years after the Rage virus had escaped a medical research laboratory, survivors have found ways and means to exist amidst the infected people. One group lives on a small island which is connected to the mainland by a single, heavily defended causeway. Jamie (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) and son Spike (Alfie Williams) leave the island on a mission into the dark heart of the mainland. They discover the many secrets and horrifying details of the outside world, from which they had been insulated.
The horror-thriller is a sequel to 28 Days Later. Alex Garland has written a story and screenplay, which are not very entertaining. The drama actually becomes depressing at times. Therefore, the engagement level of the audience keeps fluctuating.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson does a good job as Jamie. Alfie Williams steals the show with a rivetting performance in the role of Spike. Jodie Comer lends good support as Isla. Ralph Fiennes makes his mark as Dr. Kelson. Rocco Haynes (as young Jimmy), Haley Flaherty (as Jimmy’s aunt), Harriet Taylor (as Jimmy’s cousin, Delilah), Hannah Allan-Robertson, Annabelle Graham, Olivia Morley, Theadora Rawlings, Darcie Smith, Isla Vickers (all six as Jimmy’s sisters), Kim Allan (as Jimmy’s mother), Sandy Batchelor (as Jimmy’s father), Christopher Fulford (as Sam), Jack O’Connell (as Sir Jimmy Crystal) and the others provide fair support.
Danny Boyle’s direction is good but there’s not much in the film for the Hindi film-going audience. Young Fathers’ music is alright. Anthony Dod Mantle’s cinematography is very nice. Mike Tildesley’s production designing is of a fine standard. Jon Harris’ editing leaves something to be desired. Dubbing is okay.
On the whole, 28 Years Later is a very ordinary fare. Its original English version, released simultaneously, will do ordinary business but the Hindi dubbed version doesn’t stand much of a chance.
Released on 20-6-’25 at Gemini (daily 1 show) and other cinemas of Bombay by Sony Pictures Films India Pvt. Ltd. Publicity & opening: dull. …….Also released all over. Opening was poor everywhere.