"28 Years Later" scores 88% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, surpassing the first two films in ratings

The digital premiere of Danny Boyle's sequel to the cult zombie horror about infected Britain recently took place.

The film scored 88% "fresh" on Rotten Tomatoes and beat the cult classics "28 Days Later" (87%) and "28 Weeks Later" (73%). That makes the third chapter of the infected saga the most critically successful yet.

What critics are praising

According to Filmspotting reviewer Adam Kempenaar, Boyle "didn't take the easy route" and crafted a story that's not just tense, but genuinely surprising.

Slate praises the cast, especially Jodie Comer and young Alfie Williams, while The Ringer calls the film "an epic that terrifies with its closeness to reality."

Actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson in dirty clothes runs through the forest alongside a child with a bow — Frame from the film "28 Years Later"

Among the highlights: cinematography, tense atmosphere, breakneck pacing, and a powerful soundtrack from Young Fathers.

The Atlantic notes that the third installment not only matches the original but expands the universe — adding philosophical layers and commentary on modern society.

And of course, audiences are loving the sequences shot on iPhones. Remember, the filmmakers specifically developed three types of special rigs for group shooting of certain scenes.

What critics are complaining about

Main complaints center on "pretentiousness," weird editing, an illogical final scene and, quote, "a pregnant zombie on a train."

"28 Years Later" trailer

Some gripe about excessive stylistic flourishes like "GoPro arrow death" or the "skull temple," while others call the ending a "zombie Power Rangers variation." The parkour squad scene and the antagonist's tower of human remains get particularly roasted.

Still, the film has a devoted fanbase. Those who loved it call the movie "atmospheric, unsettling, mature," and the story itself "a zombie saga worthy of the 21st century." Some even compare it to Stephen King's work and call it "the most cinematic entry in the trilogy."

Given the ending that clearly sets up a sequel, this looks like just the beginning of a new chapter. According to Wikipedia, the second part of "28 Years Later" with the subtitle "The Bone Temple" hits theaters in 2026.

Should you watch it?

If you're a franchise fan — absolutely. If you want something sharp, unusual, and slightly unhinged — also yes. But if you're expecting classic zombie action without deep philosophy — you might want to brace yourself for some surprises. Earlier, we at zoomboola.com reported that "28 Years Later" became the highest-grossing entry in the series.