28 Weeks Later is a more straightforward, mainstream film than its predecessor, 28 Days Later, but it is still just as incredibly effective. Shot with a bigger budget and more sophisticated equipment (all the while maintaining the general feeling of the first film), Weeks delivers on several levels- it's scary and gruesome, but it also humanizes the rage victims in the film, all the while giving the viewer hope for the future of this world and at the same time letting us know that this disaster is far from over. While not quite as good as the original, this film stays true to the story and moves it forward in a logical manner. The story is set 28 weeks after the outbreak of Rage across England, a viral infection that almost instantaneously transforms its victims into blood-spitting, crazed "monsters" that are driven by the need to devour human flesh. In the 28 weeks since the outbreak, we learn that the virus has been all but eradicated. The infected have died of starvation (presumably with no more victims to devour) and a U.S. led NATO force has been put in place to begin the repatriation process.

Our protagonists are siblings, Andy and Tammy (Mackintosh Muggleton and Imogen Poots), who are returning to London to meet their father, played by the ever dependable Robert Carlyle (The Full Monty, Trainspotting). I hesitate to say more about the plot because each of these characters' motivations and the consequences of their actions are very integral to the unfolding of the story. One aspect of the film I truly enjoyed was watching the dynamics of this family being thrust into the middle of such a horrific situation. I felt that there was really no plot contrivances at all in this film. These characters behave like I imagine I or most normal people would respond to such circumstances. Every action leading up to the eventual re-introduction of the virus into society seems so innocent that, even though you know it is coming, you never jump out of your seat and shout for this character or that to not do what they are about to do. They are driven by real emotions and fears, not by some dumbed down script to get the action from point A to point B. One problem I did have with the plot dealt with the U.S. Military's use of what they termed "Code Red." I'm not going to divulge any details, but needless to say I have reservations that the military would resort to implementing this plan as early on as it did. I understand the rationale behind it to be sure and I certainly could not imagine having to be in charge with such an order looming in a situation such as that depicted in the film. I would just like to think that there would be another solution available before resorting to your last option so quickly.

Director Juan Carlos Fresnadillo has proven himself here not merely to be a competent filmmaker but a remarkable one. With only a handful of films under his belt (including the critically acclaimed Intacto) Juan Carlos should start popping up on many Hollywood short lists alongside other A-list directors. I was very, very impressed with his work here. His ability to stay true to the first film and make a sequel that in almost every way lives up to what has become a classic horror film is incredibly impressive. Much of this film's visual style is reminiscent of a Michael Bay film, but in this case that's not a bad thing. Fresnadillo handles the quick edits and fast paced action with grace and leaves the viewer feeling like part of the action and not feeling a headache from the way Bay handles quick cuts and rapid camera movements. I believe we will see many good things from Juan Carlos Fresnadillo in the future.

Learn more about this author, Martin Liebman.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Movie reviews: 28 Weeks Later?
We want to hear your view. Write now!