New Books Network Is 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple the Most Important Movie of the Year?
Jan 21, 2026
A deep dive into the film 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple reveals its rich themes of humanism and dehumanization through charismatic leadership dynamics. The hosts discuss the psychological contrasts between the characters Kelson and Jimmy, emphasizing how societal change spans decades in this post-apocalyptic narrative. They analyze the film's impactful imagery, including a crucifixion-like climax, and explore its critique of 'perverted charity' in leadership. Through humor and depth, they reflect on the importance of memory and history in avoiding regression.
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A Coherent Artistic Response To Our Moment
- Stephen Dyson argues the two 28 Years Later films form a coherent intellectual project about our era and will stand as key artistic responses to it.
- He says they capture emotions and questions tied to living through the pandemic and political flux.
Smiling Through A Brutal Film
- Stephen Dyson recounts sitting next to Jeff Dudas and smiling through much of the film because it hit its intellectual and aesthetic marks.
- He says the smile reflected appreciation for a movie that felt important and thoughtful.
Theater Experience And A Lasting Set Piece
- Jeff Dudas shares that seeing the film in a theater was a rare and memorable experience for him.
- He highlights the third-act set piece as the element likely to stick with him most.