Amazon.co.uk Review
Anti-vivisection activists make a very bad judgment call and release an experimental monkey infected with "rage". 28 Days Later..., as the title has it, bicycle messenger Cillian Murphy wakes up from a post-traffic accident coma in a deserted London hospital, ventures out to find the city depopulated and the few remaining normal people doing everything to avoid the jittery, savage, zombie-like "infecteds" who attack on sight.
Our bewildered hero has to adjust to the loss of his family and the entire world, but hooks up with several others--including a tough black woman (Naomie Harris) and a likable London cabbie (Brendan Gleeson)--on a perilous trip northwards, to seek refuge at army officer Christopher Eccleston's fortified retreat. However, even if they survive the plague, the future of humanity is still in doubt.
Directed by Danny Boyle and scripted by novelist Alex Garland, this is a terrific SF/horror hybrid, evoking American and Italian zombie movies but also the very British end-of-the-world tradition of John Wyndham (Day of the Triffids) and Survivors. Shot on digital video, which gives the devastated cityscapes a closed-circuit-camera realism, this grips from the first, with its understandably extreme performances, its terrifyingly swift monster attacks and its underlying melancholy. Deliberately crude, 28 Days Later is also sometimes exceptionally subtle. --Kim Newman
Customer Reviews:
Where have all the cars gone?.......2008-03-13
Ambitious but fairly predictable horror story handicapped by illogical scenes (where have all the cars and bodies gone?) and character stupidity (driving through a tunnel when zombies are afraid of the light to save some time - what's the hurry!). It's redeemed by a fantastic atmosphere, imaginative zombies (they sprint) and an optimistic ending. High-light is the sanctuary like camping scene in the abbey.
Stay clear of this rubbish.......2008-03-08
I'm not a fan of horror, but I was recommended this film because apparently it's more than just another horror film. Having watched it, I really wish I could have those two hours of my life back.
There are plenty of films around with this style (gritty low-budget feel you would expect of a hoax documentary designed for television viewing). Yes, this style is a little bit refreshing the first time you see it, but beyond that it becomes almost cringe-worthy, particularly when coupled with truly dreadful acting throughout as was the case here.
While the film began well, it quickly deteriorated into something of an embarrassment for British film making.
This film is dull, depressing, pointless and generally bad. I just wish I had read a few of the negative reviews before watching this garbage. It even fails when viewed purely as a horror film because it simply is not scary.
One of the worst films I've seen in a long time.
Made with lottery money !.......2008-01-09
I would just like to quote the gentleman below ...
"The scariest thing about Danny Boyle's film is the surprisingly large percentage of people seemingly infected by its cheap and shoddy plagiarism."
David N. Butterworth
Movie Boeuf
That it was made with lottery money makes the situation even worse.
It's actually pretty good.......2007-12-14
I've never been a fan of the horror genre, especially in its recent years, so i didn't approach this film with high hopes. I was actually pleasantly surprised, the low budget DV look the film has really does it a great service giving post-apocalyptic London a great sense of atmosphere.
Upon first viewing the final act of the film really grated on me, but watching it again i foudn it to be one of the most enjoyable sections of the film and the one that really does distinguish it from the other horror films of today.
Zombies on speed.......2007-11-25
The main difference between say this and Romero's first two classic zombie films is that here the infected are able to run. This makes them much more dangerous than the slow moving variety in Night of the Living Dead and Dawn of the Dead. Indeed Dawn of the Dead has some strong black comedy elements to it because of the zombies slowness. No such luxury with 28 Days Later, its all pretty scary and relentless. The zombies in this film are humans infected with a Rage virus which can passed on by blood or saliva.
As most other reviewers have said the opening scenes in a deserted London are superbly done. Its hard to tell how much CGI work was involved to create the effect but I do know they had permission to close off one of the London Bridges for the early scenes.
In the action scenes the film is full of very fast cutting and editing techniques, which I don't normally like, but in this instance it fits in with the conditions the survivors are having to deal with perfectly. Danny Boyle racks up the tension and the film maintains a fast-pace so unlike a lot of films, this one seems shorter than its actual running time (108 mins).
Its certainly not for the squeamish, and if you are in any doubt about your horror film stamina, then I'd rent it first (unless its very cheap). However I strongly recommend it.
Customer Reviews:
good but nothing special .......2007-12-23
I got this for my brother, zombie mad freak - his got all the books, but it's just a frilly basic Edition. The basic product with little bits of other related products e.g. the bits of the '28 Days Later: The Aftermath' book in a 'metal tin.' The only think point to make is the box art work. The second disc is quiet frankly crap, to way short. THE WHOLE package is leaving you wanting more. I think you the 1 disc dvd, the graphic novel and the book on screen play. (28 Days Later: Screenplay)
Danny Boyle presents another Brit Flick with ambition!.......2007-07-20
Good old Danny Boyle! While social realism certainly has its place in cinema we Brits have a habit of producing films with a tad too much modesty about them. Would it really hurt to incorporate some of the boisterous energy of our American counterparts into the gritty fabric of our cinematic output? Mr Boyle doesn't seem to think so, and as anyone who has seen 28 Days later will attest it combines the kineticism and energy of a Hollywood blockbuster while still retaining a very British sensibility.
While ostensibly a horror film and a zombie flick 28 Days Later has more in its agenda than pointless scares and superficial action. Beneath the pulse pounding adrenaline fueled action and fright fest there are some salient observations about human nature and the dichotomy between human beings as civilised society and human beings as mammals struggling for survival. As with Boyle's earlier masterpieces like Shallow Grave and Trainspotting the message is secondary to good storytelling and 28 Days Later succeeds as a great horror film rather than a heavy handed social commentary.
The endlessly likeable Cillian Murphy and the gorgeous Naomie Harris are on form here and their interaction with the other characters and each other provides one of the film's most appealing qualities.
This version of the DVD has all the goodies on the single disc version with a second disc providing an incredibly brief taste of the sequel 28 Weeks Later, trailers and a fun but pointless semi animated translation of the graphic novel 28 Days Later: The Aftermath (which is also included in the set), all wrapped up in a pretty little slip case.
If you already own the single disc version I certainly wouldn't suggest the extra material justifies a double dip. If, however you have yet to purchase the film (as I have) then this edition really is the ultimate way to invite "the rage" into your home.
Enjoy!
Disappointed by the Limited Edition.......2007-07-20
Firstly a review of the film which I can only describe as a brilliant modern day horror/thriller/fight for survival movie - think 'Day of the Triffids' that turns a bit 'Lord of the Flies' half way through. Very refreshing to see it based in the UK and shot in digital which really brings out the urban grey in the stunning shots of and empty London. The film I'd give the full 5 stars!
However, I'm very disappointed by this edition. It's the non limited edition (which I have to say is packed with extras!) but in a different box and a second disc containing about 10 minutes adverts for '28 Weeks Later'. There's nothing on the second disc that you can't find on YouTube and will probably be on '28 Weeks Later' DVD too.
I found the first chapter the of graphic novel '28 Days Later - The Aftermath' clunky to say the least and the idea of 'Rage' being the brainchild of mad scientist detracted from the integrity of the film. Is Spiderman going to save the day? It just could have been so much better.
I'd only recommend buying the Limited Edition if you haven't already got the original version.
A horror masterpeice........2007-07-10
28 days later is the most realistic zombie film ever made! it comes from a plausible source. But really reflects things like anti social behavior. A deep and special film, that deels with inner demons and psychological impact, filmed against deserted London, which creates a ghost town atmosphere, but also gritty realism, and the film takes the zombies as people not zombies, so they can be killed when they are shot in the body, none of that remove the head or destroy the brain rubbish! The film also delivers powerful imagery and symbolism (example: the vermin are afraid of the zombies) the good thing that makes these zombies real, are that they can pelt it and the only physical abnormality are very bloodshot eyes THE VERY SUCCESFUL REAL FACT ABOUT THE ZOMBIES IN THE FILM, IS THAT THEY ARE JUST RABID HUMANS!), and set in a dark urban labyrinth riddled with the unknown. complimented with a very haunting soundtrack. The film also has a perfect cast, including my uncles friend Cillian Murphy! It and 28 weeks both have an amazing and bombastic soundtrack. Danny boyles masterpeice. Better than any of the dawn of the dead films, this is farly superiour than anything george a romero has done. you must see this before you die!
Modern zombie movie brilliance.......2007-06-22
This really is a superb zombie movie and it if it wasn't for Romero, this would easily be my favourite zombie movie of all time, although if it wasn't for Romero then this may never have even existed. I do have to say though and I know that this may be just my opinion, but I do find that the first half of this film is much better than the second half. Personally I just thought that the second half dragged on a little and it seemed to move away from the haunting feel that I got in the first half, although I did really like the feel of the ending. The end of the world feeling in the first half is beautifully filmed and not just because of that opening scene, the motorway scene is particularly haunting and feels very realistic, especially because of the location.
The original idea of more fast and intelligent zombies was a great idea and I am amazed that it as taken this long for someone to make a zombie film in this way. I would also agree with the person about the music in this film really adding to the atmosphere.
Despite me liking the first half a lot more than the second, I still give this film 5 stars because I think overtime and on repeated viewing the second half could well grow on me, that and the fact that I love the first half enough.
If you like horror films, films with zombies in them or even disaster movies, then I recommend this very highly.
Customer Reviews:
Recycled Unimaginative Brit Copy Cat Movie.......2008-03-01
This is a typical example of the recent recycled, unimaginative pretentious Brit regurgitations of US horror-apocalypse themes which seems to be the stock in trade of this particular director. Supported barely adequately by near reject Army surplus supplies the film meanders from one predictable scene to another. The subject matter was dealt with far more intelligently in ancient BBC TV series such as The Survivors. Having sat through the movie in the cinema the overwhelming audience reaction was here we go again followed by annoyed checking of watches. Far better to look at The Omega Man based on the original book, I am Legend, flawed as it is by the associated cold war and racial awakening baggage - it was made in the 70's after all, it is rescued by its wonderful opening cinematography (which 28 days steals from) and its lead former establishment figurehead turned laconic anti-hero. Omega Man still holds up well and is better than the current Smith I Am Legend remake let down badly by its less than convincing CGI zombies, witness the final swarm scenes reminiscent of a redressing of those from the final scenes in I Robot. All in all the remakes of the original I Am Legend story have diminished in quality and impact with each attempt. Seek out the original film of the book, The Last Man on Earth, starring the wonderful yet under rated Vincent Price, a short but memorable performance that still encourages positive critique, unlike 28 days which should be consigned to the straight to DVD pap. Why this was released in Blu Ray is beyond belief and sensible marketing. I believe they have a saying in Northern England for this - "Mutton Dressed Up as Lamb".
Amazon.co.uk Review
Anti-vivisection activists make a very bad judgment call and release an experimental monkey infected with "rage". 28 Days Later..., as the title has it, bicycle messenger Cillian Murphy wakes up from a post-traffic accident coma in a deserted London hospital, ventures out to find the city depopulated and the few remaining normal people doing everything to avoid the jittery, savage, zombie-like "infecteds" who attack on sight.
Our bewildered hero has to adjust to the loss of his family and the entire world, but hooks up with several others--including a tough black woman (Naomie Harris) and a likable London cabbie (Brendan Gleeson)--on a perilous trip northwards, to seek refuge at army officer Christopher Eccleston's fortified retreat. However, even if they survive the plague, the future of humanity is still in doubt.
Directed by Danny Boyle and scripted by novelist Alex Garland, this is a terrific SF/horror hybrid, evoking American and Italian zombie movies but also the very British end-of-the-world tradition of John Wyndham (Day of the Triffids) and Survivors. Shot on digital video, which gives the devastated cityscapes a closed-circuit-camera realism, this grips from the first, with its understandably extreme performances, its terrifyingly swift monster attacks and its underlying melancholy. Deliberately crude, 28 Days Later is also sometimes exceptionally subtle. --Kim Newman
Amazon.co.uk Review
Anti-vivisection activists make a very bad judgment call and release an experimental monkey infected with "rage". 28 Days Later..., as the title has it, bicycle messenger Cillian Murphy wakes up from a post-traffic accident coma in a deserted London hospital, ventures out to find the city depopulated and the few remaining normal people doing everything to avoid the jittery, savage, zombie-like "infecteds" who attack on sight.
Our bewildered hero has to adjust to the loss of his family and the entire world, but hooks up with several others--including a tough black woman (Naomie Harris) and a likable London cabbie (Brendan Gleeson)--on a perilous trip northwards, to seek refuge at army officer Christopher Eccleston's fortified retreat. However, even if they survive the plague, the future of humanity is still in doubt.
Directed by Danny Boyle and scripted by novelist Alex Garland, this is a terrific SF/horror hybrid, evoking American and Italian zombie movies but also the very British end-of-the-world tradition of John Wyndham (Day of the Triffids) and Survivors. Shot on digital video, which gives the devastated cityscapes a closed-circuit-camera realism, this grips from the first, with its understandably extreme performances, its terrifyingly swift monster attacks and its underlying melancholy. Deliberately crude, 28 Days Later is also sometimes exceptionally subtle. --Kim Newman
Customer Reviews:
Where have all the cars gone?.......2008-03-13
Ambitious but fairly predictable horror story handicapped by illogical scenes (where have all the cars and bodies gone?) and character stupidity (driving through a tunnel when zombies are afraid of the light to save some time - what's the hurry!). It's redeemed by a fantastic atmosphere, imaginative zombies (they sprint) and an optimistic ending. High-light is the sanctuary like camping scene in the abbey.
Stay clear of this rubbish.......2008-03-08
I'm not a fan of horror, but I was recommended this film because apparently it's more than just another horror film. Having watched it, I really wish I could have those two hours of my life back.
There are plenty of films around with this style (gritty low-budget feel you would expect of a hoax documentary designed for television viewing). Yes, this style is a little bit refreshing the first time you see it, but beyond that it becomes almost cringe-worthy, particularly when coupled with truly dreadful acting throughout as was the case here.
While the film began well, it quickly deteriorated into something of an embarrassment for British film making.
This film is dull, depressing, pointless and generally bad. I just wish I had read a few of the negative reviews before watching this garbage. It even fails when viewed purely as a horror film because it simply is not scary.
One of the worst films I've seen in a long time.
Made with lottery money !.......2008-01-09
I would just like to quote the gentleman below ...
"The scariest thing about Danny Boyle's film is the surprisingly large percentage of people seemingly infected by its cheap and shoddy plagiarism."
David N. Butterworth
Movie Boeuf
That it was made with lottery money makes the situation even worse.
It's actually pretty good.......2007-12-14
I've never been a fan of the horror genre, especially in its recent years, so i didn't approach this film with high hopes. I was actually pleasantly surprised, the low budget DV look the film has really does it a great service giving post-apocalyptic London a great sense of atmosphere.
Upon first viewing the final act of the film really grated on me, but watching it again i foudn it to be one of the most enjoyable sections of the film and the one that really does distinguish it from the other horror films of today.
Zombies on speed.......2007-11-25
The main difference between say this and Romero's first two classic zombie films is that here the infected are able to run. This makes them much more dangerous than the slow moving variety in Night of the Living Dead and Dawn of the Dead. Indeed Dawn of the Dead has some strong black comedy elements to it because of the zombies slowness. No such luxury with 28 Days Later, its all pretty scary and relentless. The zombies in this film are humans infected with a Rage virus which can passed on by blood or saliva.
As most other reviewers have said the opening scenes in a deserted London are superbly done. Its hard to tell how much CGI work was involved to create the effect but I do know they had permission to close off one of the London Bridges for the early scenes.
In the action scenes the film is full of very fast cutting and editing techniques, which I don't normally like, but in this instance it fits in with the conditions the survivors are having to deal with perfectly. Danny Boyle racks up the tension and the film maintains a fast-pace so unlike a lot of films, this one seems shorter than its actual running time (108 mins).
Its certainly not for the squeamish, and if you are in any doubt about your horror film stamina, then I'd rent it first (unless its very cheap). However I strongly recommend it.
UK DVD:
- 28 Weeks Later [2007]
- 30 Days Of Night - Special Edition 2 DVD set with 48-page Graphic Novel & Slipcase [2007]
- Audition (Collector's Edition) [1999]
- Bram Stoker's Dracula (2 Disc Deluxe Edition) [1992]
- Bram Stoker's Dracula [Blu-ray] [1992]
- Casting The Runes
- Child's Play [1988]
- Creepshow [1982]
- Darkness Falls [2003]
- Dawn Of The Dead [1978] [1979]
UK DVD List
UK DVD