Although trailers are often drenched in spoilers for an upcoming release, it was nearly impossible to not rewatch the teasers for 28 Years Later, all thanks to the captivating inclusion of Rudyard Kipling's poem 'Boots' (1903). The poem was inspired by the thoughts that would plague soldiers as they marched during the war, the repetitive horror of the battle and the permanent scarring that is branded forever on their psyche. The spoken rendition featured in the viral trailer also makes an appearance in the film, with the haunting words parroting the infinite dread that has lingered on society ever since the rage virus was first unleashed. The line that is painfully screeched "There's no discharge in the war" imitates the entire film's philosophy; everything is wrecked and time is fixed in an infinite loop of peril.
The idea of civil unrest is magnified by the stellar performances of the lead performers, including Comer, Williams, and Taylor-Johnson, with the addition of Ralph Fiennes. All of the actors bring such integrity and rawness to their emotionally demanding roles, amplifying the sheer angst and disarray necessary for each of the characters. A special mention is particularly owed to Williams, whose portrayal of Spike was utterly captivating as he imbued the role with a nuanced grit and coarseness that elevated his character to be entirely multidimensional in every instance.
28 Years Later does not know when to pull the reins, and it is all the better for that reason. The constant barrage of ultraviolence, coated with its mystifying and powerful cinematography melds with the top-notch acting to create a horror film that does have its moments, but is overall a poignant and provocatively terrifying adventure.