Reviews

28 Years Later was only released in June, but its sequel is already here! Thanks to two different directors and the films being shot back-to-back, fans have only had to wait six months.

The Bone Temple, directed by Nia DaCosta, picks up just after 28 Years Later finished, with Spike (Alfie Williams) being saved by Sir Lord Jimmy Crystal (Jack O’Connell) and his gang of tracksuit and blonde wig-wearing Jimmys.

They take him in and make him a part of the violent Jimmys gang, a decision he has no real say in, and he goes around with the sadistic cult leader – who is bizarrely dressed like TV personality and sex offender Jimmy Savile – and his “fingers”, committing heinous crimes against other humans.

Running alongside this narrative is a story revolving around Dr Kelson (Ralph Fiennes) and Samson (Chi Lewis-Parry), the infected Alpha, and their new and unusual friendship.

Considering this is the only film in the current trilogy not to be directed by Danny Boyle, fans may have low expectations. But DaCosta knocks it out of the park, bringing us a film that is even better than the one Boyle gave us six months ago.

The Bone Temple is scarier, gorier and revolves around a much more satisfying narrative than 28 Years Later. The tone is also different and this has more of a sense of humour, which is a surprise considering the graphic content.

The infected (except for Samson) take a backseat so the story can focus on human vs human horror in this cutthroat post-apocalyptic world.

The Jimmys, who go around killing people because their leader commands it, are terrifying and there is one disgusting torture sequence that is extremely uncomfortable to sit through.

But on the flip side, Dr Kelson offers us much-needed light relief with his bizarre antics, unusual Samson bond and a lot of impromptu dancing.

He is easily the film’s scene-stealer, and he cements that status with a mind-blowing performance sequence that needs to be seen to be believed.

O’Connell is another memorable cast member as the cult leader who can be nice and charming in one moment and absolutely chilling the next.

He is terrifying, unhinged and not to be crossed. He could have easily been a very stereotypical character, but O’Connell makes sure to bring nuance and humanity to Sir Jimmy.

Boyle placed The Bone Temple in DaCosta’s extremely capable hands and she did not disappoint. This sequel is savage and brutal and overall more satisfying, horrifying, and entertaining than its predecessor.

In cinemas from Wednesday 14th January.

By Hannah Wales.

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