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The Enigmatic Return of Cillian Murphy in ’28 Years Later’
The anticipation surrounding the sequel to the iconic horror film 28 Days Later has surged with the release of its first trailer for 28 Years Later. Fans are buzzing with speculation regarding the potential return of Cillian Murphy, who portrayed Jim, the protagonist who awakened from a coma in a desolate, post-apocalyptic world.
While it has been confirmed that Murphy will reprise his role, his absence from promotional posters and cast listings has raised eyebrows among fans. This mystery fuels further intrigue, particularly regarding a disturbing sighting towards the trailer’s conclusion of a zombie that bears a striking resemblance to Murphy’s character, complete with his distinctive cheekbones. Executive producer Tom Rothman has alluded to Murphy’s return being “surprising,” hinting at a plot twist that is already generating theories among viewers.
Could This Zombie Be a Fake-Out?
Speculation abounds about whether the zombie resembling Cillian Murphy is indeed an ominous sign for Jim’s fate or merely a clever misdirection. Recent images from the film’s set showed Murphy looking significantly healthier, suggesting that he may not meet such an ominous end. Notably, he has also taken on an executive producer role for the sequel, which raises questions about the narrative direction the film will take.
On social media, fans have expressed a mix of shock and concern over the possibility of Jim having become a zombie. One user on X/Twitter voiced hope that the ghastly appearance was just a ruse, while another theorized it could be a dream sequence. The emotional investment in Jim’s character from the original film is palpable, with one fan lamenting, “I thought he was alive? What the f*ck???? That’s upsetting if this is true for fans of the first movie.”
What Awaits in ’28 Years Later’
Directed by Danny Boyle and co-written with Alex Garland, 28 Years Later features a talented ensemble cast, including Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Comer, Ralph Fiennes, and others. Viewers can expect more than just a continuation of the horror storyline, as the official plot synopsis reveals a world grappling with the aftermath of the rage virus that ravaged humanity nearly three decades ago.
The plot centers on a group of survivors on a fortified island, who must confront unforeseen challenges when one member ventures into the perilous mainland. This expedition uncovers sinister truths, revealing that both the infected and uninfected have undergone transformations due to decades of survival amid chaos.
Release Date: June 20, 2025
Main Genre: Horror
Source
movieweb.com