28 years later jimmy savile

'28 Years Later' Shocks Audiences: A Deep Dive into the Zombie Sequel's Controversial Ending and What It Means for the Future

The highly anticipated sequel, "28 Years Later," has finally hit Canadian screens, and it's safe to say it's making waves – and not just because of the sprinting zombies. After nearly two decades of waiting, fans are reacting to the film's intense imagery and, in particular, a controversial ending that has sparked debate and discussion online. With a reported buzz volume of around 5000, the film is definitely a trending topic in Canada and beyond.

What's the Buzz About "28 Years Later"?

"28 Years Later" picks up the story of a post-apocalyptic Britain ravaged by a rage virus. The film promises to deliver the same frightening madness that made its predecessor, "28 Days Later," a cult classic. According to Yahoo News, the film offers "beauty in the frightening madness of [the] zombie movie," suggesting a visually stunning and terrifying experience for viewers. The Guardian describes the movie as a "badass threequel," praising the evolutionary leap forward in the zombie genre.

But beyond the adrenaline-pumping action and terrifying visuals, it's the film's ending that has truly captured audience attention.

The Controversial Ending: Jimmy Savile and the Horror of Recognition

The ending of "28 Years Later" features a character named Sir Jimmy Crystal, whose appearance and mannerisms bear a striking resemblance to the late British television personality, Jimmy Savile. Savile, after his death, was revealed to be a prolific sex offender, making the reference deeply disturbing for many viewers, especially in the UK.

Several sources suggest that this resemblance is intentional. As one article puts it, "Having Sir Lord Jimmy Crystal, then, style himself in Savile's image is an additional shock to the system." The implication is that in the world of "28 Years Later," the truth about Savile would never have emerged, leaving a figure of such monstrous depravity to continue his reign of terror unchecked.

This has left some fans "shocked" and disturbed, with one article calling it the "most unexpected ending ever" due to its connection to the horrifying real-life figure. The inclusion of this character has been described as a "weird" and "insane" cliffhanger, leaving audiences with a sense of unease and dread.

Recent Updates: What We Know About the Sequel

The good news for fans is that "28 Years Later" is not a standalone film. A sequel, titled "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple," is already in the works and scheduled for release on January 16, 2026. According to reports, "28 Years Later" and "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" were filmed back-to-back. Jack O'Connell, who makes an appearance in "28 Years Later," is expected to play a larger role in the sequel as the leader of a group called 'The Jimmies'.

Danny Boyle himself has confirmed that the character of Jimmy Crystal was indeed inspired by Jimmy Savile, stating that the character symbolizes "what we choose to remember." This adds another layer of complexity to the already controversial ending, forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about celebrity, power, and societal complicity.

Contextual Background: The Legacy of "28 Days Later"

To understand the impact of "28 Years Later," it's important to consider the legacy of its predecessor, "28 Days Later." Released in 2002, "28 Days Later" is credited with revitalizing the zombie genre. It introduced the concept of fast-moving, rage-fueled zombies, a departure from the traditional slow, shuffling undead. The film's gritty realism and social commentary resonated with audiences, making it a critical and commercial success.

The success of "28 Days Later" spawned a sequel, "28 Weeks Later," released in 2007. While well-received, it didn't quite capture the same cultural impact as the original. Now, almost two decades later, "28 Years Later" aims to reignite the franchise and explore new themes within the post-apocalyptic landscape.

Immediate Effects: Discussions and Interpretations

The immediate effect of "28 Years Later" has been a surge in online discussions and interpretations of the film's ending. Viewers are grappling with the meaning of the Jimmy Savile reference and its implications for the story. Some see it as a commentary on the persistence of evil and the dangers of unchecked power. Others view it as a tasteless and unnecessary addition to the film.

The controversy surrounding the ending has undoubtedly generated buzz and publicity for the film. Whether this attention is ultimately positive or negative remains to be seen. However, it's clear that "28 Years Later" has succeeded in provoking a reaction from audiences and sparking a conversation about its themes.

Future Outlook: What's Next for the Franchise?

With "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" on the horizon, the future of the franchise looks promising. The sequel is expected to delve deeper into the world established in "28 Years Later" and explore new characters and storylines. The ending of "28 Years Later" sets the stage for the sequel, with the introduction of Jack O'Connell's character and the exploration of 'The Jimmies' cult.

One of the biggest questions surrounding the sequel is the potential return of Cillian Murphy, who starred in "28 Days Later." While there has been no official confirmation, many fans are hoping to see Murphy reprise his role in "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple." The return of Murphy would undoubtedly boost the film's popularity and further solidify its connection to the original.

Why This Matters to Canadians

While the Jimmy Savile reference may resonate more strongly with British audiences, the themes explored in "28 Years Later" are universal. The film raises questions about societal breakdown, the abuse of power, and the enduring nature of evil. These are issues that are relevant to Canadians and audiences around the world.

Moreover, the success of the "28 Days Later" franchise has had a significant impact on the horror genre as a whole. The films' influence can be seen in countless zombie movies and television shows that have followed. As Canadians, we are active consumers of global culture, and understanding the trends and innovations within popular genres like horror is essential to understanding the broader cultural landscape.

The Winnipeg Free Press highlights the film's focus on "coming of age in a time of rage," which speaks to a generation grappling with uncertainty and upheaval. This theme resonates deeply with young Canadians navigating a complex and rapidly changing world.

Conclusion: "28 Years Later" – More Than Just a Zombie Movie

"28 Years Later" is more than just a zombie movie. It's a thought-provoking and disturbing exploration of human nature in the face of unimaginable horror. The film's controversial ending, with its unsettling reference to Jimmy Savile, has sparked debate and discussion, forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about power, abuse, and societal memory.

As we look ahead to "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple," it's clear that the franchise is poised to continue pushing boundaries and challenging audiences. Whether you're a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer to the world of "28 Days Later," "28 Years Later" is a film that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll. And in a world saturated with zombie content, that's a feat worth noting.