Cillian Murphy’s Iconic 2002 Flick Creeps Back for a Re-Release, Ahead of Fabled Sequel

Published 05/17/2025, 9:12 PM EDT

The chilling specter of the zombie apocalypse rises again as Cillian Murphy’s breakthrough horror masterpiece returns for a thrilling one-night revival, perfectly timed to build excitement for its long-awaited June sequel. This eerie throwback from Murphy’s early career, nestled between his roles in Disco Pigs and On the Edge, resurfaces like a dormant virus ready to captivate audiences once more with its delicious terror.

While the original lurks in the shadows, ready to strike fear anew, the sequel sharpens its claws, ready to pounce and rewrite the rules of horror come June.

Cillian Murphy’s cult classic rises again, teasing fans with a first look at its long-awaited sequel

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Before 28 Days Later infects theaters this June, horror aficionados can indulge in a bloodcurdling blast from the past with Danny Boyle’s genre-redefining nightmare, 28 Days Later, from 2002. On May 21, the film that showcased Cillian Murphy’s breakthrough performance returns for a limited theatrical resurrection, inviting viewers to rediscover abandoned London’s eerie desolation on the grand scale it deserves. This is not merely nostalgia bait; lucky attendees will be rewarded with an exclusive, tantalizing glimpse of the sequel that fans have ravenously awaited for over two decades.

Alex Garland's razor-sharp screenplay, paired with Danny Boyle's visceral direction, crafted a tale transcending typical zombie fare, following Jim, a disoriented courier emerging from coma-induced oblivion into a world decimated by the laboratory-escaped Rage virus. As Jim bonds with survivors Selena and Frank, the story becomes more than an undead chase, it is a raw look at humanity’s primal core. With digital rentals maintaining impressive numbers and sequel mania mounting, the time could not be more perfect to revisit this blood-spattered modern classic.

“No comment”- Warner Bros Breaks Silence on Cillian Murphy Joining 'Harry Potter' Series Rumors, Sparks Debate

While the Rage virus reignites terror on the big screen, Netflix’s treasure trove reveals Cillian Murphy’s unmatched range, showcasing his deadly charisma from gritty crime bosses to high-stakes thrillers and historic dramas.

Cillian Murphy spotlight: from 28 Days Later revival to his iconic roles on Netflix

As fans count down to May’s theatrical resurrection of 28 Days Later, Cillian Murphy enthusiasts can dive into his diverse Netflix catalog — from his career-defining role as the ruthlessly calculated Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders to his captivating performance in Red Eye, where he masterfully balances charm with menace. His Oscar-winning transformation in Oppenheimer further showcases the Irish actor’s extraordinary range as the tormented father of atomic devastation.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The Netflix horizon burns bright with Cillian Murphy's forthcoming projects, including The Immortal Mana hotly anticipated continuation of the Shelby crime saga that made him a household name. He will also headline Steve, a compelling drama adapted from Max Porter's Shy, where Murphy embodies a headteacher navigating personal demons and professional obligations. These tantalizing picks serve as perfect appetizers while fans await the full theatrical return of 28 Days Later—nostalgic yet still contagious.

“Incredibly talented actor”- Tom Hardy Hails Praises of Cillian Murphy, Their Greatest Scene on ‘Peaky Blinders’, and More

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Will you be catching the 2002 flick 28 Days Later in theaters? Let us know in the comments.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

ADVERTISEMENT

Shraddha

469 articles

Shraddha is a content chameleon with 3 years of experience, expertly juggling entertainment and non-entertainment writing, from scriptwriting to reporting. Having a portfolio of over 2,000 articles, she’s covered everything from Hollywood’s glitzy drama to the latest pop culture trends. With a knack for telling stories that keep readers hooked, Shraddha thrives on dissecting celebrity scandals and cultural moments.

Edited By: Aliza Siddiqui

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

EDITORS' PICK