Danny Boyle is offering insight into what audiences can anticipate from "The Bone Temple," the sequel to "28 Years Later," which premiered in theaters on June 20, 2025. The film is the second installment in a planned trilogy that began with "28 Days Later" in 2002, and while Boyle is not directing this chapter, he remains heavily involved as a producer and has provided a glimpse into the direction of the story.

"28 Years Later" introduces viewers to a post-apocalyptic Britain nearly three decades after the initial outbreak of the Rage virus. The story centers on Spike, a 12-year-old boy, his father Jamie, and his ailing mother Isla, living on a quarantined island. The ending of "28 Years Later" sees Spike delivering an uninfected baby to his former community and then encountering Jimmy Crystal, a cult leader, setting the stage for the events of "The Bone Temple."

According to Boyle, one character will emerge as a "hugely significant figure" in "The Bone Temple." While he didn't explicitly name the character, the ending of "28 Years Later" strongly suggests that Jack O'Connell's Jimmy Crystal will play a pivotal role. Boyle has also confirmed that Cillian Murphy, who starred in "28 Days Later," will reprise his role as Jim in "The Bone Temple." Murphy's character will have a brief appearance in this film but is slated for a more substantial role in the third, as-yet-unnamed film.

Nia DaCosta, director of "Candyman" and "The Marvels," is at the helm of "The Bone Temple," with Alex Garland returning to write the script. Boyle has praised DaCosta's unique vision for the sequel, stating that she was able to let her "freak flag fly," and that the script is very different from "28 Days Later". The film is scheduled for release on January 16, 2026.

The title "The Bone Temple" refers to a physical structure introduced in "28 Years Later" by Dr. Kelson (played by Ralph Fiennes), who uses the skulls of the deceased to construct a tower honoring them and serving as a reminder of mortality. It is currently unclear how the bone temple will factor into the plot.

Boyle emphasized that while "The Bone Temple" will have connections to the original film, it should also stand on its own as a unique and independent film. He also took a risk regarding the sound and music of "28 Years Later," which he wanted to feel fresh and different. For this, Boyle tapped Young Fathers, a group from Edinburgh in Scotland.

The third film's production hinges on the financial success of the first two movies. Boyle has expressed hope that Murphy's return will help secure funding for the third installment, which he is slated to direct. Garland confirmed that he has a story, plan, and structure for the third film, which will be interrelated with the first two but also distinct, with characters having a through line throughout all of them.