Is 28 Years Later the Franchise’s Biggest Disappointment?

28 Years Later has made headlines not just for its anticipated release but also for its disappointing box office performance. Directed by original filmmaker Danny Boyle, who reunites with 28 Days Later screenwriter Alex Garland, this third installment continues the harrowing tale of the Rage virus in post-apocalyptic Britain.

Releasing 23 years after 28 Weeks Later, and five years after the iconic 28 Days Later, the expectations were high. However, Deadline reports that the film is expected to earn just $9.5 million domestically in its second weekend, marking a staggering 68% drop from its initial performance. This decline not only positions it at No. 5 on the domestic chart but also sets a grim record for the franchise.

With a cumulative total nearing $50.1 million, 28 Years Later joins the ranks of only 20 films in 2025 to surpass $50 million in North America. Yet, the breathtaking week-on-week drop of over 20% is alarming. As horror films often see significant post-opening declines, this outcome isn’t entirely surprising, but it signals a potential peril for the franchise.

The Horror Genre’s Rollercoaster Ride

It’s essential to note that horror films generally face a similar pattern—strong opening weekends followed by steep declines. However, neither of the two previous films in the 28 Days Later franchise followed this trend. In fact, the original and its sequel both held much better after their debuts.

Despite this dramatic decline, 28 Years Later achieved the highest opening weekend in the franchise. Its second-week total remains close to the debuts of its predecessors, having outperformed them in global earnings with a total of $73.6 million as of Friday. Given its $60 million budget, the road to profitability requires significant upward momentum, with estimates suggesting a break-even point as high as $150 million.

Mixed Reviews and the Hope for a Trilogy

The mixed reactions, with a 64% score on the Rotten Tomatoes Popcornmeter, alongside fierce competition from Brad Pitt’s F1: The Movie, could explain its abrupt drop. Yet, the movie is designed to kickstart a new trilogy, with 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple already wrapped and awaiting release. The third film is yet to receive funding, highlighting the stakes surrounding this franchise.

If 28 Years Later continues to struggle with audience retention, the dream of completing this trilogy may fade. However, the potential for revitalization through VOD and streaming could alter its trajectory. As fans eagerly await to see how this sequel journey unfolds, one thing is clear: the future of this iconic horror franchise hangs in the balance.

For those who revel in the art of cinema, the highs and lows of 28 Years Later serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of film and audience reception. Anticipation builds, and discussions thrive as we wait with bated breath to see where the story will lead next.