Danny Boyle has delivered a disappointing update on 28 Years Later: Part III, revealing that the planned conclusion to his post-apocalyptic horror trilogy is currently on hold. Speaking at the BFI London Film Festival on October 9, 2026, the filmmaker confirmed that Alex Garland has already completed the screenplay, but the project still needs financing. Garland’s commitment to another major film has also complicated plans to move forward.
“Alex [Garland] has written a fantastic script. We just need money. But I hope it will,” Boyle told Variety, before confirming, “So it’s on the back burner at the moment.”
The update is particularly frustrating because 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, released earlier this year, deliberately left the story open for another chapter. Although Boyle remains interested in completing the trilogy, there is currently no confirmed production schedule or release date.
Why Is 28 Years Later Part III Delayed?
The film’s uncertain future comes after the disappointing box-office performance of The Bone Temple, directed by Nia DaCosta.
Despite receiving positive reviews, the sequel earned approximately $58.5 million worldwide against a reported $63 million production budget. That was considerably below the $151.3 million worldwide collected by Boyle’s 28 Years Later in 2025.
The commercial decline raises obvious questions about Sony’s willingness to finance another instalment, although Boyle has not explicitly blamed the sequel’s earnings for the delay.
Another obstacle is Garland’s schedule. The filmmaker is currently developing A24’s live-action adaptation of the popular video game Elden Ring, leaving his availability for the 28 Years Later finale uncertain.
Will Cillian Murphy Return in 28 Years Later 3?
Interestingly, Boyle sounded considerably more optimistic just days before his latest comments.
Speaking at the Zurich Film Festival in late September, the director expressed confidence that the third film would eventually happen. He also confirmed that Cillian Murphy’s Jim, the central character from the original 28 Days Later, would have a substantial role.
The closing scenes of The Bone Temple had already established a path for Jim’s return, making the proposed finale especially important for longtime franchise followers.
However, Boyle’s latest remarks suggest that a completed screenplay and plans for Murphy’s involvement are not enough to guarantee production.
For now, 28 Years Later: Part III has not been officially cancelled, but its future remains uncertain. With financing unresolved and Garland occupied elsewhere, the franchise’s planned conclusion faces an indefinite wait despite having a story ready to film.
