Echoes of Nia DaCosta’s film “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” resonate throughout history. For instance, the first two Europeans who settled in Australia formed a brutal group of torturers, led by a charismatic figure promising rewards for violent acts. Similarly, in 1941, two individuals claimed to be saviors through ritualistic violence on Belcher Island during a harsh winter.
In DaCosta’s sequel to the zombie-apocalypse film “28 Years Later,” titled “The Bone Temple,” the narrative explores the corruption of communal systems for malicious purposes. The movie delves into themes of gore, sadism, and religious fanaticism, which may prove challenging for some viewers but offers compelling action sequences and performances.
The story centers on a cult led by Sir Jimmy Crystal, a charismatic yet sociopathic leader who enforces brutal rituals in the name of “charity.” The film challenges traditional hero tropes and focuses on the regret and desperation experienced by characters in a post-apocalyptic world.
Noteworthy characters include Dr. Kelson, who builds a monument of bones to honor the deceased, and Samson, a formidable zombie with a significant role in the narrative. The film also introduces complex relationships and theological themes, emphasizing the manipulation of belief systems for violent ends.
Through allegorical references to religious narratives, “The Bone Temple” critiques the misuse of power and the perversion of noble intentions into violence. Despite its dark tone, the film offers a message of resistance against oppressive systems without sacrificing one’s humanity.
Overall, “The Bone Temple” presents a thought-provoking commentary within its horror setting, showcasing the potential for resilience against destructive ideologies.
