28 Days Later - Danny Boyle's Rage Virus Changed Horror Forever

They’re not Zombies, they’re Infected! The third episode of The Scary Movie Project podcast, in which Matt & Tara talk about the horror movie, 28 Days Later. This film was big for using the groundbreaking Canon XL1 digital video camera. Matt shot many projects on this camera and has fond memories! *****SPOILERS***** Tara and Matt, the hosts, delve into the film 28 Days Later, directed by Danny Boyle. The movie centers around a post-apocalyptic world where a deadly virus, referred to as the Rage Virus, spreads across the UK. The conversation kicks off with Matt highlighting that the film was shot almost entirely in sequence, a rarity in filmmaking. The hosts also mention that 28 Days Later was one of the first mainstream films to be shot on digital cameras, specifically the Canon XL1, enhancing its gritty, apocalyptic aesthetic. They discuss the film’s protagonist, Jim, played by Cillian Murphy, and how Murphy was not the original choice for the role. Ewan McGregor was first considered but turned down the role, followed by Ryan Gosling. Both hosts agree that Murphy’s portrayal was crucial to the film’s success, leading to the actor’s subsequent fame. The hosts explore the themes of survival and the breakdown of society as Jim, Selena, and other survivors try to navigate the decimated landscape. They also touch on the terrifying reality of the Rage Virus, modeled after Ebola, which turns the infected into violent, rage-filled beings within seconds. The discussion shifts to the ethical and emotional challenges the characters face, such as Selena’s brutal decision to kill an infected fellow survivor without hesitation. As the plot unfolds, Jim and his group encounter a group of military men led by Major Henry West, which leads to a dark and chaotic final act where human depravity becomes as threatening as the virus. The episode ends with a look at the movie’s ambiguous conclusion and a brief mention of an alternate ending that can be found in special editions. #28dayslater #dannyboyle #ragevirus #canonxl1 #thescarymovieproject Welcome to The Scary Movie Project. Get your horror movie fix with filmmaker and horror junkie Matt Lolich, as he reviews and deep dives into horror movies and other spooky topics! https://www.thescarymovieproject.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thescarymovieproject/ https://www.facebook.com/thescarymovieproject/ http://www.youtube.com/@UC3kLeVkg40F4VGhfbl-Wz1g See show notes here: https://www.thescarymovieproject.com/episodes/episode-3-28-days-later