Get ready to dive back into the heart-pounding chaos of zombie-ravaged Britain with 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, the highly anticipated sequel to last summer’s post-apocalyptic blockbuster. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can this new installment live up to the original’s legacy, or will it fall victim to the sequel curse? Early numbers suggest it’s off to a strong start, raking in a solid $2.1 million during preview screenings. That’s a promising sign, especially as it gears up for a projected $20 to $22 million haul over the extended Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend. For context, the first 28 Years Later film, which breathed new life into Sony’s horror franchise, pulled in $5.8 million in previews last June before debuting at $30 million and wrapping up with a robust $70 million domestically and $150 million globally—all on a $60 million budget. The Bone Temple carries a slightly heftier $63 million price tag, but with director Nia DaCosta at the helm, expectations are sky-high. DaCosta takes over from Danny Boyle, who directed both the 2003 original 28 Days Later and last year’s revival. This time, the story picks up after the events of 28 Years Later, following the unhinged Dr. Ian Kelson (Ralph Fiennes) and the enigmatic cult leader Jimmy Crystal (Jack O’Connell). Fan-favorite Alfie Williams returns, and newcomers Erin Kellyman and Emma Laird join the fray, alongside original star Cillian Murphy. And this is the part most people miss: The film isn’t just competing against itself—it’s locked in a box office battle with Avatar: Fire and Ash, James Cameron’s epic threequel, which is eyeing $18 to $19 million in its fifth weekend. Cameron’s Avatar franchise is no stranger to dominance, with both the 2009 original and 2022’s The Way of Water holding the top spot for seven weeks and crossing the $2 billion mark. So, will The Bone Temple dethrone the Na’vi, or will it find its own path to success? Only time will tell. What do you think? Is 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple a must-watch, or are you more excited for Avatar: Fire and Ash? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
