How the 28 Days Later Franchise Has Empowered Female Characters and Audiences in Horror

The article explores the lasting impact of the 28 Days Later franchise on female horror enthusiasts, starting with the 2002 original directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland. The author recalls how the film stood out in the early 2000s by portraying women like Selena (Naomie Harris) with genuine agency, resilience, emotional depth, and moral complexity, unlike many contemporary slashers that treated female characters as victims or eye candy. This approach invited women in the audience to identify as capable survivors rather than passive observers. Over two decades later, the franchise continues with 28 Years Later (2025, directed by Boyle) and its sequel 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple (released January 2026, directed by Nia DaCosta). DaCosta, a longtime fan, emphasizes her respect for the series’ evolution and focuses on developing strong female arcs, such as the pivotal character Jimmy Ink (Erin Kellyman), who serves as a moral guide and story driver. Harris reflects on Selena’s instinctive strength as ahead of its time. The piece highlights shifting industry trends: women, particularly those under 35, have become a crucial demographic for horror successes, fueling demand for complicated, unapologetic female protagonists in recent hits. Experts note increased acceptance of women as horror fans and creators. The Bone Temple has earned strong reviews (94% on Rotten Tomatoes), acclaim for DaCosta’s direction, and buzz around performances like Ralph Fiennes’s, suggesting the franchise’s ongoing relevance and potential for future installments.