Movie Review: 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
Dr. Ian Kelson, played by Ralph Fiennes, is a complex character who spends most of his time alone, coated in iodine to prevent the zombie virus that has devastated England for three decades. In his ossuary, a bone temple, he often dances to the music of his youth, Duran Duran, and gazes at old photos, reminiscing about the past.
The film, directed by Nia DaCosta, is a continuation of the 2002 original, “28 Days Later,” directed by Danny Boyle. The screenplay, written by Alex Garland, explores the themes of faith, reason, and humanity in a world torn apart by violence and destruction. The story follows Dr. Kelson and a young hero, Spike, played by Alfie Williams, as they navigate a treacherous landscape filled with zombies and a cult of bloodthirsty pranksters, known as the Jimmies.
A World Gone Psychotic
The Jimmies, led by the sadistic Sir Lord Jimmy Crystal, played by Jack O’Connell, are a cult that apes the look of the late English television personality Jimmy Savile. They are obsessed with the television of their childhood and are driven by a satanic voice in their head, dubbed “Old Nick.” The cult’s actions are a testament to the chaos and bloodshed that has become the norm in this post-apocalyptic world.
Dr. Kelson, on the other hand, is a symbol of hope and resilience. He spends his days with a heavily drugged alpha zombie, Samson, played by Chi Lewis-Parry, hoping to find a way to bring him back to life. The film’s cinematographer, Sean Bobbitt, brings a unique visual language to the story, using a camera that shakes with zombie rage and then stills, lulling the audience in and out of violence and peace.
A Deeply Wistful Film
The film is a deeply wistful and nostalgic exploration of British cultural memory, with references to Teletubbies, Duran Duran, Iron Maiden, Radiohead, and Winston Churchill. The story is also a commentary on the human condition, highlighting the beauty, grace, and violence that exists within us all. The film’s use of nostalgia and cultural references serves as a reminder of our shared humanity, even in the face of unimaginable destruction.
Despite the bleakness of the world, the film offers a glimmer of hope. The idea that zombie-ism is a mass psychosis, an infectious disease that can be treated, is a powerful one. The film’s conclusion is a testament to the human spirit, suggesting that even in the darkest of times, there is always a way forward.
Overall, “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” is a taut and thought-provoking continuation of the zombie world created by Danny Boyle and Alex Garland. With its unique blend of violence, poetry, and nostalgia, the film is a must-see for fans of the genre. For more information, visit Here
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