There are resonances of Nia DaCosta’s film, “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple,” that reverberate through various historical events. For instance, the rapid transformation of the first two European settlers in Australia into a brutal group of torturers after being stranded there. Their leader maintained control by promising rewards from their victims and the thrill of violent rituals.
Similarly, in 1941, during a harsh winter on Belcher Island in Hudson Bay, two men claimed to be divine figures and orchestrated the deaths of nine community members through ritualistic violence. These instances reflect the theme of communal systems being corrupted for malevolent purposes, as depicted in DaCosta’s zombie-apocalypse sequel, “The Bone Temple.”
The film portrays a disturbing narrative of gore, sadism, and religious zealotry, which may be overwhelming for some viewers. However, for those who can tolerate it, the movie offers not only intense action and compelling performances but also a profound exploration of the origins of systematic cruelty and strategies to combat it.
To fully grasp DaCosta’s film, it’s essential to understand the conclusion of the previous installment where the “rage virus” continues to plague the British Isles, leading to isolated communities of survivors. The focus shifts to a group led by the charismatic cult leader Sir Jimmy Crystal, who orchestrates brutal acts in the name of worshiping “Old Nick.”
The narrative challenges traditional hero tropes, emphasizing the horrors of war through the perspective of characters like Dr. Kelson and Samson, who are intricately developed in this sequel. The complexities of relationships, particularly involving Spike and the cult leader’s followers, add layers of intrigue to the story.
The film delves into religious symbolism and the manipulation of narratives to incite violence, offering a thought-provoking commentary on the misuse of power and belief systems. Despite its dark tone, “The Bone Temple” presents a message of resistance against oppressive systems without compromising one’s humanity.
In a cinematic landscape filled with screaming zombies, the film’s underlying message of defiance and self-preservation resonates as a timely and rewarding revelation.