You’ve just finished 28 Days Later and want to dive straight into 28 Years Later — but wait, are the comics important? Does 28 Weeks Later come before or after the graphic novel? And where does that 24‑issue BOOM! Studios series fit in? This article breaks down every official release — films and comics — in the most efficient viewing order. No spoilers, no guesswork. Just a clean timeline to help you experience the full apocalypse from the first rage to The Bone Temple.
🧟28 Days Later Franchise: Complete Movies & Comics Guide
The 28 Days Later franchise stands as one of the most influential horror properties of the 21st century. Created by director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland, this British post-apocalyptic series redefined the zombie genre by replacing slow-moving undead with sprinting, rage-filled infected — and it has continued to expand its terrifying universe through both films and comic books.
This comprehensive guide covers every installment in the franchise, from the groundbreaking 2002 original to the latest 2026 sequel, as well as the graphic novels and comic series that fill the gaps between the movies.
The franchise currently includes:
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2 main films
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Multiple canon comic series (bridging the timeline)
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A confirmed continuation (new trilogy in development as of 2026)
🎬 The 28 Days Later Movie Series
| # | Title (Year) | Director / Key Cast | Plot Summary (Spoiler‑free) | Unique Features | RT Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 28 Days Later (2002) | Danny Boyle (dir.) Alex Garland (writer) Cillian Murphy, Naomie Harris |
A bicycle courier wakes from a coma 28 days after the outbreak to find London empty. He joins survivors fleeing toward a military outpost — only to discover that humans can be worse than the infected. | Shot on digital Canon XL‑1 for a raw, documentary feel; launched Cillian Murphy’s career; revived the zombie genre. | 87% |
| 2 | 28 Weeks Later (2007) | Juan Carlos Fresnadillo (dir.) Jeremy Renner, Rose Byrne, Robert Carlyle |
28 weeks after the outbreak, the US Army runs a safe zone in London. A carrier of the virus sneaks in, causing a devastating second wave — and revealing a horrifying new transmission route (through the eyes). | Bigger scale, military quarantine setting; explores guilt, carrier immunity, and failed occupation. | 71% |
| 3 | 28 Years Later (2025) | Danny Boyle (dir.) Alex Garland (writer) Aaron Taylor‑Johnson, Jodie Comer, Ralph Fiennes |
28 years after the outbreak, a quarantined Britain hides a mutated “Alpha” infected. A young islander ventures into the mainland and uncovers a new kind of human evil. | Boyle/Garland return; introduces evolved infected; shot back‑to‑back with The Bone Temple; global box office $150M+. | 88% |
| 4 | 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple (2026) | Nia DaCosta (dir.) Alex Garland (writer) Jack O’Connell, Ralph Fiennes, Alfie Williams, Cillian Murphy (cameo) |
Picks up directly after 28 Years Later. Spike is taken in by a charismatic cult leader, Dr. Kelson makes a shocking alliance, and the infected become less dangerous than the survivors themselves. | First non‑Boyle film; Cillian Murphy returns as Jim in the final scene; highest‑rated entry in the franchise. | 92% |
📍Future Installments
A third film in the new trilogy has been greenlit by Sony Pictures, following the positive reception to The Bone Temple. Alex Garland is reportedly writing the script, and Cillian Murphy is in talks to return as Jim. Danny Boyle has expressed interest in directing the final installment, though no official title or release date has been confirmed. Estimates suggest a release sometime in 2027 or 2028.
📚 Comics & Graphic Novels
The 28 Days Later universe extends beyond the movies through two major comic publications: one widely accepted as canon, and one whose official status remains debated among fans.
| Title (Year) | Type / Publisher | Creative Team | Story Focus | Unique Feature | Canon Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
28 Days Later: The Aftermath — 2007 |
Graphic novel (112 pages) Fox Atomic Comics |
Writer: Steve Niles Artists: Dennis Calero, Leonardo Manco, et al. |
Four interconnected stages: origin of the Rage Virus, a family’s outbreak nightmare, a vigilante cleaning up London, and the final quarantine that sets up 28 Weeks Later. | Bridges 28 Days Later → 28 Weeks Later; shows virus creation and the NATO occupation. | Widely considered official canon |
|
28 Days Later — 2009–2011 |
24‑issue comic series BOOM! Studios |
Writer: Michael Alan Nelson Artists: Declan Shalvey, Alejandro Aragon, et al. |
Selena (from the original film) guides an American journalist back into infected Britain. The team faces infected, hostile survivors, and the moral fallout of the first movie’s events. | Long‑form Selena story; issues #22‑24 run parallel to 28 Weeks Later; ends with the virus reaching Europe. | Debated / non‑canon (conflicts with the films: infected would have starved by then) |
⚡ Key Franchise Facts
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The Rage Virus – A modified Ebola‑like pathogen that causes uncontrollable, homicidal rage. Infected are living humans, not zombies.
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Visual style – The first film’s gritty digital look influenced a generation of horror and post‑apocalyptic movies.
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Political themes – Military brutality, failed occupation (Iraq War allegory), Brexit, and the fragility of civilisation.
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Strong female lead – Selena (Naomie Harris) is a landmark horror heroine: pragmatic, fierce, and morally complex.
🎯 Quick Reference: All Releases
Movies (4)
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28 Days Later (2002)
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28 Weeks Later (2007)
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28 Years Later (2025)
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28 Years Later: The Bone Temple (2026)
Comics (2)
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28 Days Later: The Aftermath (graphic novel, 2007)
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28 Days Later (BOOM! Studios #1‑24, 2009‑2011)
Upcoming
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Third film in the new trilogy (TBA, ~2027‑2028) – Alex Garland writing, Cillian Murphy likely returning.
🔢How to Watch 28 Days Later Series in Order: Movies & Comics
The 28 Days Later franchise — spanning four films and two comic releases — has become a landmark in horror cinema. Whether you are a first-time viewer or a completionist, knowing the correct viewing order ensures you experience the full Rage Virus timeline without confusion.
This guide provides two ways to watch: release order (recommended for newcomers) and chronological timeline (for deep‑dive fans). All comics and movies are included.
📊Quick Reference: Watch Order at a Glance
| Order Type | Sequence |
|---|---|
| Chronological Timeline (Includes comics) | 28 Days Later → The Aftermath (graphic novel) → 28 Days Later (BOOM! Studios #1‑21) → 28 Weeks Later + BOOM! #22‑24 (concurrent) → 28 Years Later → The Bone Temple |
| Release Order (Best for first‑time viewers) | 28 Days Later → 28 Weeks Later → 28 Years Later → 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple |
✅ Tip: The comics are optional. For the purest experience, stick to the four movies in release order.
🕒 Chronological Order (Story Timeline)
👉 Best for fans who want the complete narrative, including comics
Phase 1: The Outbreak
1. 28 Days Later
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Timeline: Day 0–Day 28
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Jim wakes up in a deserted London after the outbreak
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Establishes the virus and societal collapse
Phase 2: Early Outbreak Stories (Comics)
2. 28 Days Later: The Aftermath
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Anthology stories during early chaos
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Shows different survivor perspectives
3. 28 Days Later (Boom! Studios series)
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Continues Selena’s storyline
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Explores survivor groups and global impact
Phase 3: Rebuilding & Collapse Again
4. 28 Weeks Later
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Timeline: ~6 months later
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Military attempts to rebuild London
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The virus resurfaces with devastating consequences
Optional (Upcoming Continuation)
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28 Years Later (upcoming sequel)
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Expected to expand the story decades after the outbreak
📊Full Chronological Timeline (Movies + Comics)
For the complete story in story‑order:
| Step | Title | Format | When it takes place |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 28 Days Later | Film | Days 28‑29 after outbreak |
| 2 | 28 Days Later: The Aftermath | Graphic novel | Days 29‑32 |
| 3 | 28 Days Later (BOOM! #1‑21) | Comic series | Approx. Days 32‑180 (canon debated) |
| 4 | 28 Weeks Later (film) + BOOM! #22‑24 (concurrent) | Film + comics | Day 196 (28 weeks) |
| 5 | 28 Years Later | Film | ~28 years after outbreak |
| 6 | 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple | Film | Immediately after 28 Years Later |
🎬 Release Order (Recommended for Beginners)
👉 Best for first-time viewers who want the original experience
For first-time viewers, watching in release order ensures you experience the franchise exactly as audiences did over the years. Here’s the complete release timeline:
| Order | Title | Format | Release Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 28 Days Later | Film | 2002 |
| 2 | 28 Days Later: The Aftermath | Graphic Novel | April 3, 2007 |
| 3 | 28 Weeks Later | Film | 2007 |
| 4 | 28 Days Later (BOOM! Studios #1–24) | Comic Series | July 2009 – June 2011 |
| 5 | 28 Years Later | Film | June 20, 2025 |
| 6 | 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple | Film | January 16, 2026 |
📚 Where the Comics Fit
The franchise includes two official comic publications. Both are set between the first two films.
| Comic Title | Type / Issues | Year | Timeline Placement | Canon Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28 Days Later: The Aftermath | Graphic novel (112 pages) | 2007 | Days 29‑32 (right after 28 Days Later) | Widely considered canon |
| 28 Days Later (BOOM! Studios) | 24‑issue monthly series | 2009‑2011 | Issues #1‑21: Days 32‑180 Issues #22‑24: concurrent with 28 Weeks Later |
Debated (contradicts infected starvation timeline) |
What each comic adds:
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The Aftermath: Shows the origin of the Rage Virus, a family’s outbreak struggle, a vigilante clearing London, and the quarantine that sets up 28 Weeks Later.
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BOOM! Studios series: Follows Selena (from the original film) as she guides an American journalist back into infected Britain. Expands her story but has canon inconsistencies.
🔥Final Watch Order Recommendations
If you only have time for the films, watch in release order:
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28 Days Later (2002)
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28 Weeks Later (2007)
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28 Years Later (2025)
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28 Years Later: The Bone Temple (2026)
For the complete chronological experience—movies and comics combined:
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28 Days Later (Film, 2002)
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28 Days Later: The Aftermath (Graphic Novel, 2007 — Days 29–32)
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28 Days Later (BOOM! Studios Issues #1–24, 2009–2011)
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28 Weeks Later (Film, 2007)
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28 Years Later (Film, 2025)
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28 Years Later: The Bone Temple (Film, 2026)
📊 Final Thoughts: Chronological vs Release Order
| Order Type | Best For | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|
| Chronological | Hardcore fans | Full story continuity |
| Release Order | First-time viewers | Better pacing & suspense |
🌐Where to Watch the 28 Days Later Series: Official Streaming Guide
After years of being notoriously difficult to find online, the franchise has become much more accessible thanks to renewed interest following the release of 28 Years Later.
Streaming Services
Streaming availability for this franchise is very region-specific. To help you find the right option, here’s a breakdown of where each film is currently streaming in the US, UK, and Australia.
| Title | US | UK | Australia |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28 Days Later | Pluto TV (free with ads); also available for rent/purchase on Prime Video and Apple TV | BBC iPlayer (free); Netflix (until Feb 1, 2026) | Amazon Prime Video, Stan |
| 28 Weeks Later | Hulu, Disney+ | Netflix, Disney+ | Disney+, Stan |
| 28 Years Later | In select theaters (ended); digital rental/purchase on Prime Video and Apple TV | Digital rental/purchase; also available on Netflix US | Amazon Prime Video (VOD) |
| 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple | Digital rental/purchase onPrime Video , Apple TV, Fandango at Home | In theaters (ended); digital rental/purchase now available | Amazon Prime Video (streaming as of Feb 2026) |
Rent or Buy (VOD)
If a title is not available on your preferred subscription service, you can easily rent or purchase it digitally. These platforms are the most reliable way to ensure access to the entire series, including the original 28 Days Later:
Pricing Guide: While prices vary by platform and region, you can expect rates similar to these:
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Rental (48-hour access): Typically $4.99 - $24.99
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Purchase (Digital ownership): Typically $13.99 - $29.99
Physical Media (4K UHD, Blu-ray, DVD)
For collectors or fans who prefer physical copies, the newer films are available on disc.
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28 Years Later (2025): Available to buy on 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and DVD.
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28 Years Later: The Bone Temple (2026): The 4K UHD SteelBook, Blu-ray, and DVD were released on April 17, 2026. This edition includes special features like commentary with director Nia DaCosta, behind-the-scenes footage, deleted scenes, and bloopers.
💡 Expert Tip: The Best Way to Stream
The cheapest way to watch the older films depends on your region: Pluto TV (US) offers free, ad-supported streaming of 28 Days Later; BBC iPlayer (UK) streams it for free; and in Australia, an Amazon Prime Video subscription is your best bet. Meanwhile, the two newest 2026 films are currently tied to Netflix (US) and digital rental in other regions.
📝The Definitive 28 Days Later Viewing & Reading Guide (2026)
The 28 Days Later franchise is a landmark in modern horror, renowned for introducing the terrifying "fast-infected" trope. As of April 2026, the series has grown into a vast, sprawling narrative spanning four feature films and expanded comic lore.
Here is your efficient guide to mastering the Rage Virus timeline.
1️⃣The Definitive Marathon Order
The series is uniquely accessible because its titles indicate the passage of time. For the best narrative experience, follow this combined sequence:
| # | Title / Media | Type | Year | Run Time | Timeline Placement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 28 Days Later | Film | 2002 | 1 hr 53 min | Days 28-29 after outbreak |
| 2 | 28 Days Later: The Aftermath | Graphic Novel | 2007 | N/A | Days 29-32 after outbreak |
| 3 | 28 Days Later (BOOM! Studios #1-21) | Comic Series | 2009-2011 | N/A | Days 32-180 after outbreak (canon debated) |
| 4 | 28 Weeks Later (Film) + BOOM! #22-24 | Film + Comic | 2007 / 2011 | 1 hr 40 min | Day 196 after outbreak (28 weeks) |
| 5 | 28 Years Later | Film | 2025 | 1 hr 55 min | ~28 years after outbreak |
| 6 | 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple | Film | 2026 | ~1 hr 50 min | Immediately after 28 Years Late |
2️⃣Viewing Tips for the Best Experience
⏩Before You Start
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The Rage Virus: Unlike traditional zombies, the infected in 28 Days Later are living humans driven into uncontrollable rage by a genetically modified pathogen derived from Ebola. They are fast, relentless, and can transmit the virus within seconds.
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The "28" Naming: Each film's title directly indicates the time elapsed since the initial outbreak, making the timeline incredibly easy to follow.
⏩Watching the Films
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Go for Immersion: Turn up the sound — John Murphy's score builds unease masterfully. Watch alone in a dark room for maximum tension, or with a friend who hasn't seen it if you enjoy watching reactions.
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Embrace the Grittiness: The original film was shot on low-budget Canon XL-1 digital cameras. The intentionally grainy, documentary-style aesthetic is a feature, not a flaw — it amplifies the sense of realism and dread.
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Total Marathon Runtime: Watching all four movies back-to-back will take approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes:
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28 Days Later: 1 hr 53 min
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28 Weeks Later: 1 hr 40 min
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28 Years Later: 1 hr 55 min
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28 Years Later: The Bone Temple: ~1 hr 50 min
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Check Alternate Endings (DVD/Blu-ray): The original DVD release of 28 Days Later includes an alternate ending that radically changes the film's tone. For the full experience, watch the theatrical cut first, then explore the alternate version.
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Bonus Features: If you own the physical media, the extras are worth your time. The commentary track with Danny Boyle and Alex Garland provides fascinating insight into the filmmaking process, and the "Pure Rage" making-of documentary offers deeper context.
📊Quick Summary for First-Time Viewers
| If you have limited time: |
Watch only the four films in release order: 28 Days Later → 28 Weeks Later → 28 Years Later → The Bone Temple. |
| If you want the complete story: | Follow the chronological timeline above, including 28 Days Later: The Aftermath between the first two films. |
| If you're a hardcore fan: | Add the BOOM! Studios comic series for the full Selena storyline (despite canon debates). |
⚒FAQs: Navigating the 28 Days Later Universe
Whether you are a new viewer or a long-time fan of the 28 Days Later saga, the franchise’s evolving timeline can be complex. Below are answers to the most common questions fans have about the films and comics.
The 28 Days Later series remains a masterclass in atmospheric horror. By understanding the timeline and the nature of the Rage Virus, you are ready to fully immerse yourself in this harrowing post-apocalyptic world. Grab your gear and prepare for the ultimate survival marathon!