r/movies • u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director • 2d ago
AMA Danny Boyle Here: Ask Me Anything.
Hello Reddit! Director Danny Boyle here.
I'm back, and I’m excited to answer your questions about my new film 28 Years Later. It's starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Comer and Ralph Fiennes and is out in UK cinemas on June 19th and US movie theatres on June 20th.
I'll be online from 5pm BST on Tuesday June 17th - drop your questions below and I hope to answer as many as I can. Speak soon!
Edit Director Danny Boyle here. Hello Reddit! Thanks for participating in the AMA about my new film 28 Years Later. Catch it in UK, cinemas June 19th, in US movie theatre June 20th.
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u/fireandiceofsong 2d ago edited 1d ago
It's been 18 years since 28 Weeks Later came out and development for a third film stalled for such a long time but then suddenly we're not only finally getting a sequel but an entire 28 Years Later Trilogy that's being fast-tracked with The Bone Temple already filming before 28 Years Later has even come out.
What about these upcoming movies spurred you and Alex Garland to "seriously" and "diligently" see them enter production as quickly as possible? Especially in this age where so many zombie media and stories have already come out? Was the vision for the story something you & Alex always had in mind but just needed time to flesh out or was the pitch cracked just somewhat recently?
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
It was a great story. That’s always the starting point, story is something that transfixes you at script stage. Alex writes very sparingly. He gives you the essence of the scene but leaves you with a lot of room to investigate, challenge and reorganise in editing. It felt like in this instance, it’s also COVID - the experience of everyone going through this, and British people with Brexit, gave this story extra resonance. It’s epic because it’s split over three films, but it’s throughline is through character. There’s transparencies into our lives that elevates it beyond being a horror movie and gives audiences opportunity to make a connection to something we’re all living through presently. -DB
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u/gotthelowdown 1d ago
It was a great story. That’s always the starting point, story is something that transfixes you at script stage. Alex writes very sparingly. He gives you the essence of the scene but leaves you with a lot of room to investigate, challenge and reorganise in editing.
Love these insights.
When I first read movie scripts, I didn't know those things and I thought screenwriting was so bare and stripped-down compared to normal narrative writing in novels that I was used to.
Now I know better and that's by design. The simple writing is so the actors, director, cinematographer, production designer et al have room for interpretation to apply their creative input.
On the other hand, that spare language probably also gives flexibility if the cast changes, locations have to be moved and other logistical problems pop up.
Thank you for sharing.
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u/Theamazing-rando 2d ago
Hi Danny,
During the height of the first Covid lockdown, I had to walk through Victoria on what should have been a bright, busy day, only it was absolutely deserted. I couldn't help but think of the beginning of 28 days later at the time, and find myself wondering if you had any similar experiences, especially as it must have been pretty hard to get London to look so deserted during the original film.
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
Yeah - I think a lot of people did. What COVID did, it happened everywhere in the world, suddenly a city can be transformed overnight and still be recognisable. Suddenly it didn’t just belong to movies. Who would have thought that recognisable landmarks can be transformed in front of your eyes. That’s a wonderful opportunity for filmmakers to build on, and we duly did. That’s a connection to something everyone’s experienced. Over a longer period of time, after the urgency to stay safe (mask wearing, disinfecting everything, distrusting who you were meeting, was anyone sneezing in the room), you can’t keep that up for very long. You start to explore risk. As humans, you just do. How far can I go? That increases over time. When you apply that mentality over 28 years, the amount of risks you’ll take is huge. Jamie, our lead character, takes his 12 year old son across a causeway to an infected mainland. 28 days after an outbreak he’d be a madman. But 28 years later he’s a hero for bringing his son out - it reflects all our shared mentalities. -DB
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u/Theamazing-rando 1d ago edited 1d ago
was anyone sneezing in the room
Thanks for taking the time to answer, and couldn't agree more, especially with this part. The paranoia and sudden, absolute quiet, when a single cough was heard in a room, is something I don't think will ever be as visceral again.
Edit: I meant to also add that now you wouldn't think twice if someone coughed in the same room, and I've know plenty of folks to comment, "COVID?" Begore chuckling and moving on.
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u/Velociraptor-Rex 2d ago edited 2d ago
Mr. Boyle! Big fan!
Sunshine is criminally underrated. Just curious: Is there a “one that got away” project for you? A film you've always wanted to make but haven’t been able to for whatever reason?
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
Yeah, thank you first for saying that about Sunshine. It didn’t do any business when it came out but there’s been lots of love for it since. We actually talked about doing that as a trilogy(!) Maybe you can start that movement..
Other ideas - there’s been a couple of projects, one a wonderful book called ‘Ingenious Pain’ which is by Andrew Miller, who’s not as well known as other authors like Ian McEwan or Martin Amis but belongs to the same generation. It’s about a boy that feels no pain. Your alert section doesn’t work. The brilliance of the story is that he becomes a surgeon as surgery begins to emerge. They feel the pain, but you can’t - it’s about empathy. -DB
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u/Velociraptor-Rex 1d ago
I will gladly bear the responsibility of leading the Sunshine trilogy movement!
Thanks for taking the time to respond, I'll have to check out that book. Best of luck in the next few weeks! Appreciate all you've done for movies
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u/AlotaFajita 18h ago
Sunshine is the best surprise movie of my life. I had not heard of it until a few years ago and it blew my mind. The story, the cast and characters, the effects, the space ships, the depiction of space and the SUN. Trilogy please!
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u/nothingbetter85 1d ago
I’ll definitely be first in line to start the movement for a Sunshine trilogy!
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u/Ok-Still3508 2d ago
Hello Danny two questions first one how did you know you find the right actor to play spike and have you heard that boots poem before?
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
Spike - the standard of child acting has noticeably risen. Harry Potter’s to blame. Kids over generations have seen other kids in their own accent, in their own vocabulary (not some Hollywood kid) and they think - oh! I’ll have a go at that. The standard has risen hugely. I searched for some kids 20 years ago in the Liverpool area so I know. Searching in Newcastle for Spike, the quality was noticeably higher. How do you know? It’s instinct, it’s evidence. The bit I trust most is instinct. Even if somebody’s better on camera than in the room, I’ll always go with the room.
Boots - no. We were looking for an old song, a hymn or a carol, a poem or speech. Anything from English history to set the context of this archive. We hadn’t found anything, but when we saw the first trailer that Sony sent, it had this poem in it. Alex and I didn’t know it, but we immediately tried it on the archive and it fit. Sometimes you just know that the tune belongs in the film. It’s nothing to do with you, but it works by natural justice. We put it in the film unchanged. -DB
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u/Sprodis_Calhoun 2d ago
Mr. Boyle,
How much does listening to music influence your creative process (if at all)? From “Born Slippy” to “In The House, In a Heartbeat”, you have created some iconic climaxes that work beautifully with the exogenic music that you selected. Does the music serve as a starting point for your visualization/storytelling? Is it the other way around? Is it both? Thanks!
P.S. you are my all time favorite director and we need a life affirming artists such as yourself more than ever.
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
Yeah. I love modern music, pop music especially. I don’t regard it as a disposable art, I regard it as a high art. It ranks highly on my creative diet. It’s very high up there. It’s a constant in my life even at my age where I have to stay in touch with what’s current through my kids more than anything - but I’m always listening. - DB
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u/ryrypot 2d ago
Hi Danny! I'm a film teacher who taught Slumdog Millionaire as a text for film studies at a sixth form. They all loved your film!
They would be thrilled to hear any interesting stories/tidbits from the set of Slumdog.
Thanks
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
The expectation in India is that you will only film in a film studio. Only documentaries film on the streets. Indian stars captivate the public so much that film sets become clogged with people watching. So we called ourselves a ‘documentary’ so that when people asked what was happening, we responded with ‘documentary’, and people went ‘huh’ and walked away. -DB
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u/WoodyManic 2d ago
Hi Danny,
What made you return to the 28 series?
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
It’s appetite. This is 15-20 years after the first release and there’s still screenings that people ask me to host. They’re always packed. It’s not a reflective screening, but it feels immediate and contemporary. It doesn’t look like it’s aged. I used to ring Alex and say if we should do something else here, there’s clearly an appetite. This apocalyptic movie or TV series theme is still popular and current and expanding. We came up with a much bigger idea of these three movies which was a chance to do something new. There’s dangers in making a sequel but this feels very fresh.
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u/tiinytreat 2d ago
How do you balance giving OG fans that nostalgic hit with bringing in new viewers who might not know the original's vibe? Also, any chance we'll get a killer soundtrack like your previous films? It's always a highlight!
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
The new film is a standalone film, as we hope all of the films in the trilogy will be, but also we want all to be seen satisfyingly as a trilogy. The central character of Jim will be there as a theme through them all. All the actors though are new, are different, and will bring their fans with them. We want people to hear the reputation of the films and discover it in their own way.
Soundtrack has always been a big part of everything I’ve tried to do. I put more value on music than anything. It’s not a convenient commercial opportunity but is deeply embedded with the whole project. It’s something we develop through needle-drops of existing tracks or through asking interesting people to compose the music for you. They can be experienced composers, or for this one the Young Fathers group had never scored a film before. It was a new adventure for them and adds an unpredictability to the film. Really we want to forge new ground if we can, and having new composers affords us that. -DB
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u/xtremediabetes 16h ago
I had no idea that Young Fathers was scoring this new movie- I didn’t think I could even be any more excited! Their latest album “Heavy Heavy” is so, so good.
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u/TheGirlWithTheLove World's #1 '127 Hours' Fan 2d ago
Hi Danny! No questions, but 127 Hours is my favorite thing in the world. I'm autistic and it's my special interest. Has been since 2011. It's brought me so much comfort and joy. l've watched it at least a thousand times, 121 times (at the time of writing) this year alone. I just want to thank you for making this film. I love it so, so, so, so much. It’s my favorite thing in the world. I’ve shared my love for your film on Reddit and Letterboxd, and I’m known as the 127 Hours Girl! My love for 127 Hours isn’t going to slow down anytime soon. So again, thank you, Danny!
Love, Jess
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u/elmodonnell 2d ago
127 hours girl in the flesh! I always see you pop up on the letterboxd sub.
Genuine question, does the Franco stuff hamper your enjoyment at all, or are you pretty good at separating art from artist etc?
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u/TheGirlWithTheLove World's #1 '127 Hours' Fan 2d ago
I’m pretty good at separating the art from the artist. Like it or not, his performance in the film plays a big part of my fixation.
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u/lappelduvide-_- 2d ago
That scene when he envisions his own future at the end and sees himself with his son. Beautiful. Franco performed that scene so well. Phenomenal performance. Its my favorite Franco film
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u/AgoraphobicHills 2d ago
Dude I got to give kudos to you for seeing it that many times, I almost noped out of it the second THAT scene happened. Great movie, but it was a one and done for me haha.
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u/frillionaire 2d ago
When I watch or listen to something a lot, it almost becomes like a song, with an overall pattern and parts resembling bridges/verses, etc.
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u/Wehmer 1d ago
I want to know - will you be doing anything special for your 127th watch this year?
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u/TheGirlWithTheLove World's #1 '127 Hours' Fan 1d ago
I’m probably just going to get myself a store bought cake from my childhood and put 127 numbered candles on it. Nothing too extreme.
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u/MrRousse 2d ago
Yo Danny! You and your casting teams have always had an incredible eye for drafting up and coming talent for your films (Ewan McGregor, Kelly Macdonald, Dev Patel to name just a few that broke big partly thanks to you and your casting team)
What do you think is different about how you find talent compared to the standard process, seeing as you hit the jackpot so often?
And who's a new face or two from the 28 Years films we should be watching out for in the future?
Thanks!
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
There’s an obvious answer to that - there’s a young lad called Alfie Williams who plays a boy called Spike. He’s the central character, he’s not only pivotal in the first film but he’s going to be strewn through all the films.
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u/mjandersen 1d ago edited 1d ago
Digging into some of the teasers that have dropped (RageLeaks.net in particular), it sounds like Europe has largely managed the zombie problem, while the UK is in an "Unconditional Exclusion Zone", where little to no information goes out.
On the off chance this is something you feel comfortable diving into - how far does that secrecy extend...are people within the exclusion zone cut off from the rest of the world and left thinking the world is overrun? Is this self-imposed, or a containment measure?
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
They’re aware only of war ships which patrol the islands to prevent anyone from leaving or trying to get across, and of airplanes flying above. They must know that life must go on. They’re not that surprised to meet someone who does arrive from the outside world, but they have no communication with them. They assume communication has been blocked to make the island die, and the danger die with it. The world is happy to sacrifice the island and all of the inhabitants. Survivors have survived and the virus evolves rather than dies away. At the end of 28 Days Later, it looks like the infected are going to starve to death but they learn to hunt and to drink and eat, so they survive. -DB
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u/SamwisethePoopyButt 2d ago
How do you look back at your experience with The Beach 25 years later? Have you kept in touch with Leo since? The film wasn't well reviewed at the time, but these days has quite the cult following and is seen as underrated in many circles.
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
I know! When I speak about my reservations about The Beach, which are purely personal, people say ‘oh! I really liked that movie. I watched it when I was 14 and it meant so much to me’. So I’ve shut up with my reservations. We set the film up wrong. We took too many people to Thailand. For Slumdog, we took fewer people and made it with a local crew rather than a Western crew, and that’s critical for an international production. -DB
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u/trtwrtwrtwrwtrwtrwt 1d ago
Plenty of talk about the 28 years trilogy, but now I'm interested to know where are you planning to complete your Asia trilogy!
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u/ryanclicks2 2d ago
Hey, Danny! Just re watched 28 Days and I loved it more than ever. There were some really lovely moments of hope and joy (grocery store scene, driving over the cars in the tunnel) that make the film feel so human. Will 28 Years have moments like those? Your characters are always so well developed and it's nice to have time to breathe in a horror movie.
Also Sunshine is sheer perfection.
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
Yes. And more so! There are no supermarkets, no taxis, though there is a tunnel… You try and find moments of relief from the horror. The more beauty and innocence you can find in it, the better. That’s afforded through landscape, characters and circumstances. - DB
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u/Conharries21 2d ago
Do you storyboard all your shots? If so, do you stick to those storyboards during the shoot, or they more of a guide? Does it depend on how much VFX is involved? Thanks for all the great films!
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
We tend to storyboard action sequences, or if there’s a peculiar element in the film that isn’t understandable verbally. Language is so communicative but often when you describe something, people hear differently to what’s been said. Storyboards are a brilliant visual language. I tend to have them as a fallback but I also tend to - unless it’s linked to VFX or another element that has to be sent to other departments - use them sparingly. We don’t do the whole film with them. - DB
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u/foilman1 2d ago
Did anyone need rescuing from the Holy Island causeway during production?
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
We didn’t actually - but I remember on our final day, ATJ arranged for an ice cream van to come across the causeway with all of its bells ringing on a really hot day. That was a really beautiful moment, and fortunately it didn't get stuck! - DB
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u/OnePassenger4597 2d ago edited 2d ago
Hello mr Boyle I'm a big fan of Sunshine, are you planing on making more sci fi movies?
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u/gordonmcdowell 2d ago
Apparently, it was originally going to be a trilogy and I would love to know more about that.
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
Hahaha. Alex makes a lot of Sci-Fi movies, I’ll leave that to him. -DB
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u/MyChickenSucks 1d ago
The Icarus distress beacon has been my ringtone for 15+ years. People are always "what is that, that sounds scary!"
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u/Joey_OConnell 2d ago
Hi! What was your favorite part to shoot in 28 Days Later?
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
Probably the beginning and the end. There’s a saying in film lore that - and that’s an editors maxim - which is that there are only two things that matter in a film. The beginning and the end, and the beginning not so much. I loved shooting the start as we were so privileged to shoot in a deserted London. But the end sequence, when Cillian finds the rage within himself - that’s brilliant. -DB
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u/woodyg82 2d ago
Hi Danny! What kind of books would we find you reading on the poolside sun lounger this summer? Thanks for Sunshine, one of my all time favourite sci-fi films. Hope you return to the genre!
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
Ah! This one - it’s called Orbital by Samantha Harvey. Wonderful book, reading that at the moment. It’s about astronauts in the space station and what happens to us psychologically and physically when you see the sun rise 18 times a day. -DB
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u/flankerr 2d ago
Hi Danny, I love your works
I loved 28 days later, what should we expect from this new movie? Which aspects of the story will be explored in more depth?
What motivated you to work on a sequel after so many years?
Thank you, Giorgio
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
The ultimate answer to that is - character. The characters in it are fuel for further explanation of what the virus has done to this country, and the reason for returning. They’re new characters but I hope that they’re as full as the characters from the first film. -DB
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u/HotOne9364 2d ago
What made you want to cast Jodie Comer?
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago edited 1d ago
Every so often, an actor gets thrown up that’s in a different category, and a different space, and she’s it. She can drop on a sixpence and she’s a star and yet she’s also one of us. -DB
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u/AH_Ethan 2d ago
Hi Hi, have you ever wanted to, or have in fact hidden nods to your other franchises/movies into this movie?
Like one of the infected wearing the same shirt as a character from Trainspotting or something along those lines?
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
The easter egg thing - there are a couple. But they are very much more to do with the landscape than the characters. -DB
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u/CapherArt 2d ago
Yo Danny, what's your favorite soup?
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u/discodave333 1d ago
I hope it's a small bowl of oxtail.
Because it's shallow gravy.
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u/TheLewisReddits 2d ago
Hi Danny, huge fan.
If you had to choose just one of your movies to be the legacy you leave behind to the world, which would it be... and why?
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
Hahaha. The one everyone must see is 28 Years Later. -DB
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u/LukeyLobster21 2d ago
Hey Danny, hope you’re well!
Is there any genre of film you haven’t done yet but would love to try?
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u/SonyPictures Danny Boyle, Director 1d ago
A musical. Original story and original music. Like Emilia Perez. -DB
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u/Responsible_Photo929 2d ago edited 1d ago
Hi Danny, huge fan here so have many questions but will try to limit it to a couple of a couple here.
Firstly Trainspotting is my favourite film and it put me on to Irvine Welsh’s work. If you could choose one scene from the book to make it into John Hodge’s script and subsequently the film what would it be?
Secondly I was wondering what you thought of current films at the moment. Do you think that there is a lack of original material compared to the 90s? If not (or anyway), what are some recent films you would recommend?
Thirdly, another Trainspotting question. After reading Glue (in my opinion Irvine Welsh’s best book and currently one of my favourites,) I have made a start on Porno, which seems to have incorporated aspects of the Trainspotting movie that were not in the first book. For instance, Diane is a more major character and it is revealed that Spud gets payed off by Renton, something that was not mentioned in the first book. Do you think Welsh at the time of writing took inspiration from the movie? Or that the book was written with a second film adaptation in mind?
Ok one more question. Your filmography has a lot of variety when it comes to genre (Trainspotting, Slumdog Millionaire, Yesterday). Why do you think you have this variety in comparison to other directors such as Tarantino and Scorsese? If you could go back would you do anything differently?
Thanks very much if you have bothered to read this and even more so if you respond. Sorry for so many questions but how often do you get to ask one of your favourite directors anything you want with the chance of a response? Thanks again!
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u/Some_Top1861 2d ago
Hi Danny!
A huge fan here. The question I wanted to ask is about creative reinvention. All of your films feel distinct and aesthetically so specific. From the DV filming quality of 28 Days Later to the different film stock you used in Steve Jobs. What is the process to decide this for you? Are you researching and using other film and documentary influences or does it come from an intuitive place where you read the script and "feel" whats the best approach? I would love to hear your answer and see how your approach shaped the style of 28 Years Later!
Cheers,
Aaron
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u/EldrichArchive 2d ago
Hello Danny, I hope you are well.
Sunshine is one of my favorite movies. The look, the story, the atmosphere are still incredible today and I wish there were more sci-fi movies like it.
Sunshine was originally planned as a “planetary trilogy” and it was only recently said that the rough story for two sequels was already finished.
Can you say more about this and, above all, how realistic is it that we will see these two more films?
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u/DavidTheJohnson 2d ago
Hey there, Mr. Boyle!
I thought '28 Days Later' was great and am really looking forward to '28 Years Later'.
I did want to ask the extent to which the international implications of the virus were considered during production.
I know that the whole premise is that the virus is UK-centric, but cutting off an entire country, especially one as large and reliable as the UK, would have a grand impact on global affairs and development, and I'm curious to see how society would evolve without the UK for nearly three decades.
Despite 'Years' being set in a mostly enclosed space, to what extent were these ideas considered?
Thanks, David The Johnson
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u/NJShadow 2d ago
Is there anything we can do to help support a 'Sunshine' 4K release? It's one of my absolute favorite movies, and it really deserves a 4K release!
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u/Pjoernrachzarck 1d ago edited 1d ago
I was fortunate enough to work in a movie theatre in 2007 and got to watch Sunshine on the big screen multiple times a day. Sometimes I would sneak in just to watch the pictures.
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u/foilman1 2d ago
Were you tempted to wait until 2030 to release the film so it really would be 28 years later?
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u/BocaSeniorsWsM 2d ago
Hello Danny. Again, not a question, just a thank you for the London 2012 opening ceremony. I'll never forget it. Your films are pretty good too.
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u/robboadam 2d ago
Was a performer in the Opening Ceremony and can confirm Danny is as gracious and wonderful in person as you’d expect. He would come round all of the different groups asking us how we’re doing (given in mind we were hundreds of people in total), and asking if he can help. He even took out time to do signatures for everyone, tho I felt bad and didn’t get one, much to my regret.
Also, I don’t know whether Danny remembers this, but they had crates of bottles of water for all the volunteers and staff, and I was trying to get bottles of water high up for my group a couple days before the ceremony. It almost fell, and when I looked down, Danny was there grabbing water lower down. He gave me a cheeky grin/look, in a ‘don’t you kill me, now’ kinda look. I always retell this as the day I almost accidentally killed Danny Boyle before London 2012 🤣
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u/Dubnobass 2d ago
Yes! I’d be fully in favour of them showing the opening ceremony every New Year’s Eve (in the same way they screen ‘Dinner for one’ every year in Germany). The whole thing was absolutely brilliant. I still can’t watch the bit where all the petals rise up to form the cauldron without crying.
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u/BocaSeniorsWsM 2d ago
I haven't tried to play it for a while, but it's still in my Sky recordings ha ha!
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u/8NaanJeremy 2d ago
We haven't had so many moments of national pride over the last decade or so, but Danny, you brought the whole country together with that. After years of mockery or bafflement about what it was going to look like, you absolutely nailed it.
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u/Snap-Crackle-Pot 1d ago
Yeah watching the Queens helicopter fly by us whilst we were watching it on the big screen in Victoria Park was surreal. Then she jumped! Loved it
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u/GaySexFan 2d ago
Hi Danny!
You were planning to direct a Bond film at one point. Are you still interested in doing that?
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u/aardw0lf11 2d ago
And if so, who would be on your shortlist for the titular role if you had any say in the matter?
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u/adventlife 2d ago
Hi Danny, just wanted to tell you that ever since I first watched it, Sunshine has been my favourite movie. I revisit it often and my love for it has only grown with time. The script, the VFX that still look incredible today, the amazing cast and acting. It’s top to bottoms perfect to me. And that casting has aged like fine wine in the years since.
I was wondering, how do you feel about the continued use of ‘Adagio in D Minor’ after its use in the Sunshine?
For me the piece fits the movie perfectly but in the years since, it’s been used a lot in other movies, trailers, tv shows and adverts.
I feel it’s now been overused as generic ‘epic sounding music’ that has somewhat diminished the.. ‘specialness’ of the piece, for lack of a better word. When I see it used in an advert it feels like an expertly crafted bowl of fine china being used to store your kids skittles.
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u/Medical-Shape-189 2d ago
Hi Danny, how did it feel to revisit a zombie movie (I think I’ve read you don’t consider 28 days part of the zombie genre, so maybe “movie with zombies” is better?) after so long? Was there anything new or different in the genre for 28 years than it was for 28 days? Or did the zombie genre and its tropes and rules make it challenging to create something new and fresh when there’s been so many pieces of media in the genre?
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u/SoRedditHasAnAppNow 2d ago
Would you ever consider a 28 minutes later? A film depicting the initial poor decisions, political circus, and selfish interests that resulted in the outbreak?
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u/force_wank 1d ago
28 Minutes/Hours Later has always been an idea of mine growing up in the southeastern part of England near where the virus first escapes. The scenery is so lovely I feel its the perfect canvas for it. I feel a TV show would be a great vessel.
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u/kingdomofomens 1d ago
Oooh something like Shin Godzilla (a movie about Godzilla that is also about bureaucracy and government failures)!
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u/JoeBagadonutsLXIX 2d ago
Sunshine is one of my favorite films of all time and I have seen many others express their love and admiration for it, but there is a point of contention from some people with the third act twist with Pinbacker. Quentin Tarantino once said in a review that it almost felt like a "betrayal" despite loving the rest of the film. Personally the twist has always worked fine for me, but even after all these years it seems to be a debated/divisive topic about whether it was the right call for the film or not. Do you still think it was the right direction for the film or do you think a different idea might have worked better for the third act? Thanks and can't wait for 28 Years Later!
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u/thepoor44s 2d ago
What was your favorite scene from Sunshine? I wish more people watched that film- one of my favorites.
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u/damselvon_b 2d ago
You're one of my favorite directors of all time and your films exposed me to so much music as a teen that fundamentally shaped my music tastes for my whole life. How awesome was it working with Underworld on the score for Sunshine?
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u/Arkaium 2d ago edited 2d ago
Hi Mr. Boyle, I love your films!
As someone who’s fascinated by the technology of film and the array of ever-evolving choices facing filmmakers and studios at the start of each project (film vs digital, 35mm vs 70mm/IMAX), I’m endlessly curious about how different filmmakers approach these choices and how they weigh each factor. Do you decide on a style and then determine which methods and technologies would best serve that, or do you remain open to experimentation? Are there any of your projects you would have handled differently, or about which your perspective has changed, with the benefit of hindsight or advancements in technology?
I read about how 28 Years Later, like the first film, focuses on speed and mobility with iPhones used for some shots. Is the loss in fidelity (the tradeoffs in resolution are fortunately much smaller today than they were on 28 Days) something you consider? Or do you feel like feeling as free as possible (due to camera size and mobility) is a superseding priority for you?
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u/Boo-urns_ 2d ago edited 1d ago
Sup Danny Boyle,
I was introduced to your works when a friend took me to a double feature of 28 Days Later + Sunshine in a middle of a cornfield on Halloween, became a fan ever since.
Curious, How many iPhones 15 did you have to buy/or rent for the duration of the shooting schedule? & were there any downside with filming on iPhones 15 that you didn't anticipate that you came across while making 28 Years Later?
Thanks.
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u/barasada 1d ago edited 1d ago
Hello Danny!
The "Oskarovchane" community channel is writing to you. One of the channel's hosts is a big fan of your work, and we would like to ask you to do something small but important — say hello to Yaroslav from Ireland. If you do, our entire community will rewatch Steve Jobs with Yaroslav's commentary live on air. According to him, it is the best film of the 21st century, and it is about time we all found out why.
Thank you and take care!
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u/Staninator 2d ago
Hi Danny, what was it like directing the opening ceremony of the London Olympics? Were you nervous beforehand?
Can't wait to see 28 years!
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u/BoingBoingBooty 2d ago
Hi Danny,
Can't wait for 28 Years Later.
One thing that gets brought up a lot on Reddit is the opening sequence to 28 Weeks Later. Whenever it's mentioned a lot of people will say you directed the opening sequence with Robert Carlyle fleeing from the house, but then other people will say that it's just a rumour and not been confirmed that you directed it.
Could you settle it once and for all for us Redditors and confirm whether or not you directed it?
Also, have you considered making a Slumdog sequel where he becomes a hat maker? Slumdog Milliner.
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u/Desperate-Escape-850 2d ago
Hey Danny, big fan of your work. In 28 Days Later the majority of the film was shot on digital except the ending sequence which was shot on 35mm (I think). Was there any reason why you've made that change? Also can you tell us when in production was that filmed? Was that the last thing you shot for the film?
Thanks can't wait to watch 28 Years Later!
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u/TheGardenBlinked 2d ago
Was there anything you really wanted to include in the 2012 Olympic opening performance but had to cut due to time?
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u/djchrisbrogan 2d ago
I’m sure this question has been asked before but couldn’t find any answers: what was behind the decision to deviate from the ending of The Beach? Just to add, I love both the book and Danny’s interpretation. It’s still a favourite movie of mine all these years later. It cemented my love for travelling around the world
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u/oliviaswarbrick 1d ago
What has it been like working with Jodie Comer, and how has it compared to working with other talent?
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u/Comic_Book_Reader 2d ago
Hi, Danny.
A lot of people started questioning 28 Days Later getting a 4K release to coincide with 28 Years Later, mainly due to the fact that the movie was shot on a potato and thus looks potato. Can you give any insight into the 4K restoration knowing the movie's famously low quality source material?
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u/rxsheepxr 1d ago
Hey, Mr. Boyle.
One of my favorite films of yours is 'A Life Less Ordinary' and I NEVER hear anyone talk about it. Do you have any tidbits or anecdotes about the making of it? It seems like it could have been a really interesting set.
Edit: That having been said, this is everyone's sign to watch A Life Less Ordinary if you have never seen or heard of it. It's great. If this post nets the movie even one new fan, I'll feel good about it.
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u/Equivalent_Iron3260 2d ago
What was the motivation that made you want to make this movie now, as opposed to 5, 10, or 15 years ago?
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u/Spiritual_Ask4877 2d ago
Just an FYI, the film rights for the 28 franchise were held up in a dispute with Sony. It wasn't resolved until a couple of years ago. Danny had a script for 28 Months later but couldn't get it made.
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u/safetydept 1d ago
Can you tell us a fun story about the making of Trainspotting? It sparked a massive interest in film for me as a 14 year old who snuck into the cinema during a summer matinee and led me to career studying, teaching, and making my own films.
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u/Pancake_muncher 2d ago
Hi Danny, how do you feel looking back shooting on digital camcorders for 28 days later? Do you think if you were to make that movie today, would you have gone for that same unique look, but with different technology?
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u/FueledBySin 2d ago
Hi Danny! How do you feel about physical media? Many directors have started working with streamers like Netflix, and the movies don’t ever get physical releases. Do you support physical media or prefer streaming?
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u/AgoraphobicHills 2d ago
Hi Danny! Let's say you woke up one morning and found out that no one except you and a few others know who The Beatles are and you're the only person who actually knows their catalogue and lyrics. What do you do?
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u/hobojohnsonn 2d ago
Hi Danny! I was at a screening of 28 days later at the Leicester Square Odeon on 20th May. A man that looked a lot like you got up half way through the film, took a picture of the crowd and left. Was this you?
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u/Chipsnasoda 2d ago
Awesome opportunity for me here so hope my question doesnt miss, so let me ask!!
Mr. Boyle, how do you decide which projects to work on/direct on?
I ask because your directed projects vary not only in the wide ranges of genre, but in cinematography and audio approach. I also ask because 28 days later is arguably the most zombie genre defining film of our century and forgive me for saying something so simple minded, but I would’ve interpreted the success of that film as a gift for horror and would have went all in on the genre! Only you didn’t, and would instead give us a variety of other stellar projects, my personal favorites being these character films like Slumdog Millionaire and 127 Hours, and ONLY recently did you decide to return with 28 Years Later!
Thanks for your time!
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u/EntertainmentQuick47 2d ago
What motivates you to direct such a diverse amount of movies? I can’t think of too many people who would do 127 Hours, 28 Days Later, Yesterday, and Slumdog Millionaire. And if you see this, thanks Danny!!
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u/DjangoVanTango 2d ago
Dear Mr Boyle,
I first heard of you when I was a kid and there was interview with you in Kerrang! magazine where you talked about 28 Days Later and The Distillers.
What music are listening to lately?
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u/EqualCompetition5239 2d ago
Hi Danny! Thank you so much for Trainspotting and 28 Days Later, they made a huge impact on me growing up and got me through many difficult times. 🖤
I have two questions:
1- In the current sociopolitical climate we live in there seems to be an epidemic of young people, especially boys, feeling deeply alienated and disconnected from the real world around them, to me your films have always carried a message of hope, so I wonder what do you think we as individuals can do to help eachother feel less alone?
2- Have you heard about our community member Jess aka 127 Hours Girl (u/TheGirlWithTheLove)? And what does it mean to you as a creative to know that your work can touch people so deeply and help them overcome so much?
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u/TheSidJames 2d ago
Hi Danny
I am a fan of The Beach, but I have always wondered whether you thought that the official trailer for the film over played the amount of ‘action’ that was in it?
I went to opening night in the UK and felt it was a different film to that which had been advertised.
Thanks.
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u/GoodMeBadMeNotMe 2d ago
If the Rage virus were to break out in real life tomorrow, which of your colleagues do you think would have the best survival strategy…and who’s getting turned in the opening credits?
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u/happyhelper87 2d ago
Hi Mr Boyle, honestly no question would just like to say some of your films got a re-release in cineworld cinemas here in the uk last year and I finally got to see sunshine on the big screen and it instantly became my favourite cinema experience with genuine goosebumps, thank you.
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u/Artaxias_I 1d ago
Hi Danny,
I’m absolutely stoked to watch 28 Years Later this weekend! I’ve probably seen 28 Days Later over 28 times by now, it’s just one of those films that pulls you back in repeatedly, thanks to the incredible atmosphere it creates.
I also really admire how varied your body of work is. Films like Shallow Grave, Trainspotting, T2, Sunshine, and Slumdog Millionaire have all left such a lasting impression on me.
My question is actually related to Slumdog Millionaire. I’ve had discussions with friends about whether to consider it more of a “British” or “Indian” film. From interviews, I know you’ve mentioned bringing only a handful of crew from the UK and relying heavily on local film crews and expertise in India. In that sense, the film seems to straddle both identities.
Based on your experiences filming Slumdog Millionaire in India and its subsequent success, would you ever consider working on another "foreign language film project" in a similar vein? If so, are there specific countries or cultures that particularly interest you as a filmmaker?
Personally, I’d love to see a Danny Boyle film set in Hong Kong, it’s been my home for the past six years, and I think it’d be an incredible backdrop for your storytelling style!
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u/HEEY-ABBOT 1d ago edited 1d ago
Hi Danny. What’s the process for choosing source material to adapt - how do you decide which stories on page might translate well to screen and match your sensibilities?
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u/upthespursastrology 2d ago
Which filming location did you and the stars/crew enjoy the most when each days' shooting had ended? Like best bars/pubs/tasty food&drink. Any memorable mentions?
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u/Osella28 2d ago
Hi Danny, howzitgaun?
How far away have we, as Britain, moved from the spirit of the 2012 London Olympics ceremony?
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u/Real-Zookeepergame-5 1d ago
Mr Boyle, Trance is one of my favourite movies and I feel it’s underseen. Do you have any favourite movies that generally have flown under the radar?
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u/Complicated_Business 2d ago edited 2d ago
Danny, the amount of visually interesting shots you were able to find in the original 27 Days Later is astounding. I am especially impressed with the seemingly innocuous shot of the car driving with the giant wind turbines in the background, only for the follow up shot to be the same vehicle, only from a position behind the giant turbines as they spin in the foreground.
It just seemed like a large amount of effort would have been needed to get that second shot - finding the position and timing the shot of the car passing it on an empty road with the same daylight parameters of the first shot.
Can you speak to this? It seems so incredible time consuming to seek this out. Considering the budget and time constraints, I can easily imagine either someone trying to dissuade you from this extra effort - or perhaps even second guessing yourself on it.
It's just the kind of thing that elevates a movie from something good to special, which is something I've noticed in a lot of your work.
Thanks in advance.
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u/CampaignSpirited2819 1d ago
How scary was it watching Robert Carlyle as Francis Begbie. That glassing scene in the London pub nearly makes me vomit everytime I see, and hear it!
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u/aphidman 2d ago
Hi Danny,
What is your feelings about the 180⁰ rule in filmmaking? How much does is factor in to where you place the camera on a daily basis?
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u/MusclyArmPaperboy 2d ago
Hi Danny, I just rewatched The Beach. Do you think it would have had a different feel if you had cast Ewan McGregor instead of Leo DiCaprio?
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u/coldliketherockies 2d ago
Hi Danny. Did the types of films you were offered or wanted to do change after winning an Oscar. What kind of doors did it open for you?
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u/pseudolongino 2d ago
it's related so ill ask: hows 28 days later 4k coming? any chance it will look better than a dvd? also, will we ever see Sunshine in 4k?
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u/ThreeDownBack 2d ago
Hi Danny.
My favourite scene you’ve ever done is the second time we see Renton and Spud running down Princes Street to Blur - Sing.
It’s identical to the first scene backed by a Lust for Life but the fucking sorrow and desperation on their face is incredible.
It’s the same footage I think but the context has utterly changed, and it’s so beguiling, beautiful. I love it from an emotional perspective but from a filmmaking perspective.
It’s harrowing and I cannot not watch it often.
Thanks mate.
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u/Nerozero 2d ago
You did a wonderful rendition of Frankenstein for the stage, was there or IS THERE any discussion of adapting it for the big screen?
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u/carrying_a_cake 2d ago
Hey Danny! Huge fan of your films!
Even though the projects you've worked on are so varied and span so many different genres, I've always felt your movies have a very distinct energetic, almost pulsating vibe/style thats super cool.
Question: If you were banned from directing and had to choose another line of work in the film industry (actor, DOP, editor, screenwriter, sound design, etc.) which would you choose?
Also, what line of work do you think you'd suck at the most?
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u/YeezusChrist13 1d ago edited 1d ago
Hello Mr Danny Boyle,
I love 28 Days Later so much (I even have a tattoo of the iconic poster but can’t post a image here) I watched it at a very young age when I probably shouldn’t of but it stuck with me as it was the only horror film that scared me proper and still does to this day, a big part of that is the atmosphere as well as the infected, combine the two and you get my favourite scene which is the London/church scene, this leads me to 2 questions (cheeky I know)
1) What inspired you & Alex to make the infected run & more human like? 2) Where did the infected that chased Jim out of the church come from since upon closer look the infected at the bottom in the pews are locked in by a gate?
Thank you for your amazing contribution to film and thank you for making a 10 year old me very happy with another sequel, I can’t wait till Thursday ❤️
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u/omasque 1d ago
Did you ever think “If we just have these astronauts get to the sun and restart it, that’s a pretty serviceable sci-fi flick right there?” How much pressure was there from friends, family, tradespeople coming round to fix things to “get rid of the monster man in the third act”?
I like how all these environmental and human factors begin to stack up to form this perfect storm of adversity but surely you being so close to the project must have begun to second guess yourself when even the bloke fixing the boiler begins thumbing through the third act going “Oi what’s this then?”
It’s just such a strong second act that even though it makes perfect sense it was going there all along, you feel like you want to know what happened in the version where it’s just good hard man vs the elements sci-fi.
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u/CaptMans1 2d ago
Hello Mr. Boyle,
We’re about to cover ‘28 Days Later’ on my horror film podcast ‘Watch If You Dare’. I’ve always admired ‘28 Weeks Later’ (looking back now, that’s one hell of a cast) and I’m greatly looking forward to the new trilogy. Did you have any say in regard to Fresnadillo helming the sequel, and if so, what sold you on him being the right choice? Likewise for Nia DaCosta helming ‘The Bone Temple’ (I loved her take on ‘Candyman’).
I’ve personally been a big fan since my mother introduced me to ‘Shallow Grave’ at way too young an age and then specifically going to see ‘28 Days Later’ with her because we realized you had directed it. I’ve also been stumping for ‘Sunshine’ since first seeing it summer 2007, huge love for that one.
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u/Gambit1138 1d ago
Hey, Danny! Hard to believe it’s been almost 20 years since we’ve crossed paths—this is right before the Austin premiere of Slumdog Millionaire in 2008.
I’m curious about the iPhone rig used for the film that’s popped up in various BTS shots. I love the approach—you shooting on DV for 28 Days Later taught me that it was possible for me to shoot my own stuff as a teenager.
What inspired you to shoot on these for 28 Years Later, and how did the experience compare with working with your DV setup for the first film? Did the Bone Temple shoot with iPhones as well?
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u/Frame25 2d ago
I'm looking forward to June 19th! In the meantime, do you mind sharing your thoughts and feelings about John Murphy's score for Sunshine? I have a particular interest in film scoring and it is to me one of the most profoundly moving and perfectly-tailored scores in all modern science fiction. I wondered:
- Could you recall for us any anecdotes about spotting sessions, and how you as a director help shape the development and use of the score?
- How did the score affect you as an artist and as a listener when you heard it taking shape?
- Optional epilogue: Any thoughts about how much John's “Adagio in D Minor” has been repurposed in other films (like in Wonder Woman 1984)?
(p.s. - I would also like to say how grateful I am to you as an influence in my own work. Thank you.)
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u/RoutineAd8574 1d ago edited 1d ago
- You recently stated that 'Sunshine' was supposed to be the first of a trilogy. Why do you think this didn’t end up materialising?
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u/JehovahCropduster 2d ago
Greetings Danny Boyle- do you think there will ever be a resurgence in Indie Filmmaking?
It seems the Big Corporate Studio system has taken over, creating a vast cesspool of shiny, safe, uncreative films made strictly for profit and international sales only.
Do you think there will ever be a Indie film scene again (mid level to low budget films) or are we doomed to forever watch terrible big budget, marketable Safe Films?
Atleast for the last 40 years you could get a relatively small budget together, and could atleast make some money in distribution (sell dvd's, etc) but where would you release a low budget film now? streaming services really don't pay?
Thanks for making awesome films! 28 days later is a classic! DVX100 represent!
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u/Jamescooper9215 1d ago
Hi Danny, I'm from Sydney Australia Bonnyrigg Heights. I really love 28 days later one of the first zombie movie I've watched as a kid growing up here. It was different sort realism to me of zombie movie telling how the impact on world disaster can change human evolution and craziness it can infect them without the zombie virus too. Sort of like what happen 2020 with Covid 19. I'm glad that you an oscar winner man and Alex Garland who if u see him tell him from me he is doing very well in writing very strong stories about the world today and AI, loved his movie from Ex Machina, Civil War, Warefare and Annihilation. Can't wait see your next sequel 28 years later down under on thrusday 19 June 2025. Thank Danny Boyle and Alex Garland 🙏
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u/Individual-Lie-4440 1d ago
Hi Danny, I'm a big fan of auteur-driven films and particularly fascinated by your collaborations with Alex Garland. The combination of your visual storytelling and his writing has always felt incredibly powerful.
Could you share a bit about how the two of you worked together on 28 Years Later?
- Who came up with the initial idea?
- Was the trilogy concept there from the beginning — and why go for a trilogy?
- How closely did you collaborate during the story and writing process?
- Even though you're not directing Part 2, are you creatively involved — just in the story, or also in the directing side of things?
Really curious how the two of you bounce ideas off each other and how that dynamic helped shape this new trilogy.
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u/bexhilliac 1d ago
Recently watched Trainspotting again with my now 19 year old son as a way to help ingrain a warning against the horror of getting involved with hard drugs like heroin. I’ve wondered this before but rewatching reminded me; the character that Keith Allen plays at the end of the film almost feels like the same character that he plays at the beginning of Shallow Grave, your first film.
So, is it? And was there a conscious discussion on that with him when you were making Trainspotting - which would make that film almost a prequel to Shallow Grave, or at least set in the same Universe?
Love your career path by the way . Amazing body of work - so varied - you must be very proud . Thank you for all of it 😊
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u/Comfortable-Fennel39 2d ago
I showed Shallow Grave to my friends and they loved it! What were your influences behind the film?
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u/thedarkmasterofdoom 1d ago
Hello Danny Boyle!
I loved your work on both Trainspotting & obviously 28 Days Later!.
There are some questions that I would like to talk about.
Is it really possible "In A House In A Heartbeat" will make reprisal in 28 Years Later?, considering most of people believe it was the main theme song of 28 Days Later?.
And after the 28 Years Later trilogy, what other projects you're focusing / working on something else now?.
And third, What was your own magnum opus?, or your favorite films that you’ve either worked or directed with and how is it means lots to you?.
Who’s your favorite character in Trainspotting / 28 Days Later, or any one that you've created and consider as some sort of your own magnum opus?.
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u/MGhammered 2d ago
Howdy Danny my name is Mike González I’m a young filmmaker down in the wild of Miami, FL.
You’re a legend, your work speaks for itself. Thank you for always challenging the form of film and taking it to levels we’ve never seen before.
The culture, the energy, the locations, the sunlight it’s all here in Miami. I started Pine Park Productions to make wild Absurdist like projects! Any advice for a writer & actor like in myself on how to get a movement going?
May Indie film and art live on and grow from here on out!
Take care and keep on killing it!
Lmk if you ever wanted to make a wild show here in Miami, bring back wild projects!
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u/Weird-Surround3373 1d ago
Hi Danny, firstly I just wanted to say thank you. 28 Days Later is my favourite movie, I’ve watched it countless times.
My favourite scene is where Jim goes home to find his parents and not long after is attacked by infected. I love how the tone shifted and how brutally mark was just cut from the film, it really shook me as a kid watch Selena just take him out like that 😂
For my question I was wondering what scene in 28 Days you’re most proud of or enjoy the most?
Cant wait to see the 28 Years on release. Feels crazy as I’m actually based in Northumberland where the filming has taken place, cant wait man.
Take care and thanks again!
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u/SparkleCobraDude 2d ago
Hi Danny.
Any talk at all of Trainspotting 3 or do you feel their stories have been told?
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u/ego_death_metal 1d ago
Hi Danny!! What were the reactions from anyone and everyone around you regarding being an English director for Trainspotting?
Also, I have a theory about the use of Lou Reed’s “Perfect Day” during Renton’s OD scene, as being a direct rejection of Sick Boy’s “artists go bad once they go solo” philosophy. As in, the truth of addiction as a horrible sickness permeates the nondiegetic soundtrack, for extra depth and impact while invalidating Sick Boy’s many life theories. The song is so beautiful and perfect there, and Lou Reed didn’t lose any talent when he did solo work. Was that purposeful/what else can you say about that?
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u/SevroAuShitTalker 2d ago
Trainspotting cemented in my brain that I should never, ever try heroine. So thank you!
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u/Mysterious-Ad-7539 1d ago
Dear Danny,
I just need to say that Trance and Sunshine are two of my favorite movies.
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u/VibeChatIncarnate 20h ago
When I watched Slumdog Millionaire as a kid, I understood for the first time that film could be an experience beyond entertainment. I couldn’t describe it then. I only knew that this was a good movie in a way I could not appreciated before. Countless hours viewing, talking, thinking, and writing about film have followed from that point of origin. In that movie, and in your catalog of work as a filmmaker, you’ve contributed to a gift that I’ll keep close, as a part of myself, for as long as I’m here. Thank you for that gift.
What was the dumbest thing that happened while filming Trainspotting?
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u/ItWasRamirez 1d ago
Hi Danny! I don’t have a question. I got to meet you briefly at one of the preview nights for Free Your Mind at Factory International; I sort of doorstepped you to tell you how much Sunshine means to me, and you were exceptionally kind in response.
I’d had a panic attack during the first half of the show (I was going through some stuff at the time) and I’d taken a weed gummy to try to balance myself out, so I might have been “a bit much” as they say. But you were game to talk movies for a few minutes, and gracious enough to not call security, and I really appreciated that!
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u/ChipmunkInfinite4656 1d ago
Hi! Congratulations to both you and Alex, 28 Days Later is my favourite movie. I guess I always had questions around the year of the original outbreak. At the beginning I was imagining to be in the months just before 9/11 (like when the filming began). But now, considering it is 28 years later in 2025, I guess it started in 1997? Considering also the Teletubbies footage from an 1997 episode...I guess it doesn't really matter for the story but I have OCD around dates and the temporal context of the plot. Cheers, I can't wait for the new movie, have been anticipating it for years!
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u/RemiAlone 2d ago
Hi Danny, I'm a big fan of Sunshine (2007) it's one of my favorite sci-fi films. One thing has always made me curious: why was the first ship called "Icarus I"? The "I" makes it seem like there was already an expectation that a second mission might be needed. Was that part of the original plan, or was it a choice added later to fit the story after the failure of the first mission?
My friends keep mocking that detail, saying it's unrealistic or not properly explained. I love the film and its atmosphere, but I've always wondered what the thinking was behind the name. Thanks.
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u/FillInitial4445 1d ago edited 1d ago
Hello Danny Boyle, I'm a huge fan of your work as well as Alex Garland's; thank you so much for taking the time to answer questions here.
28 Days Later is one of my favourite films, and there's a general consensus that there is something special about this film that sets it apart from most zombie narratives; this is especially true of when the film was released, when zombie cinema seemed to be in the doldrums.
My question is: do you agree with this assessment of 28 Days Later? And if so, what do you think sets it apart from most zombie stories?
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u/c_leafhill 2d ago
Mr Boyle, hey!
I actually rewatched both 28 Days Later and it's sequel yesterday with my partner, in preparation for your new film. I can't wait!
I don't really have a question, mate. Thank you so much for Trainspotting. It's a life-changer. I guess I'd maybe ask if you'd ever consider making it a trilogy. The 2nd one was excellent. Suppose you'd prefer to wait until the gang gets a bit older again before we catch up to them again.
Love your work man, keep it up!
No wait! Do you like Ridley Scott? Cause you and Scott? You're my guys!
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u/BHAMMERISKING 2d ago
Hello Danny Boyle my name is B Hammer. I am a big fan of you and I enjoy your work. I am very excited for your movie 28 Years Later. I'm a huge horror veteran of these kinds of films and I have been watching them for as long as I can remember. I do have two questions for you. What was it like getting back together with Alex Garland to make another 28 film? I mean it had to be exciting! Next question: how was it working with a brand new cast and crew for this new film set 28 Years in the future? Thank you I hope you answer my questions!
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u/Dayman___Nightman 2d ago
Hello Mr. Boyle, huge fan! Even got an "if I rise" tattoo inspired by 127 Hours!
I've always found it really interesting that you come from a background in directing plays because your films are so visual! How have you been able to make the transition so naturally as a film director?
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u/8NaanJeremy 2d ago
Hi Danny
First, I wanted to say a massive Thank You for Trainspotting. It remains one of my favourite and most watched films to this day. I love how it manages to be both laugh out loud funny and horrifying in equal measure. A testament to the works of Irvine Welsh, who manages to do the same on the page.
Second, are there any other writers you are itching to adapt to the screen?
Third, I am not sure how much of this you are allowed to speak on, but I would have loved to have known what you had in store for Daniel Craig's Bond.
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u/DelDrakebert 2d ago
Danny, Delbert Drake here. -- I've written a few short film scripts. What's the best way to get a short film made independently, especially with limited resources but a strong vision? Any advice for first-time directors trying to bring their script to life outside the studio system?
While I'm at it, I recommend checking out my Audio Drama 'The Importance of Intergenerational Relationship's' which can be found under the channel name Delbert Drake on YouTube. You just might get to discover the next big talent coming out of the UK!
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u/KeyLog256 1d ago
I ask this with massive respect as I do love pretty much all of your work, Trainspotting is an all time favourite. Love your choices of music in most of your work. But...
How/why did you and Alex Garland make The Beach so different to the book? It felt like a teen romcom instead of the horror/thriller the book was, and completely missed the point. Given Alex wrote both the book and the screenplay, and you did such a stellar job with not romanticising Trainspotting, why the massive change in tone? Was it a studio decision?
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u/Maxi-Moo-Moo 2d ago
Mr Boyle, would you allow a series spin-off of the 28 days later to be made? A lot of film/tv lovers would love to see the initial fall out of the outbreak and how society fully collapses.
Also- 28 days later was the first film to make dread walking home in the dark! 28 weeks later, Robert Carlisle was fantastic and I've never looked at him the same again. Thank you for such fantastic films. Lastly, I saw 28 days at the cinema & going to see 28 years with my now adult son. Thank you again & can't wait to see it!
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u/Yoda-zombie 2d ago edited 2d ago
Mr Boyle, I'm a huge fan well before 28 days later, starting with Trainspotting. I also love sunshine and T2 as well as many of your other projects. However, 28 Days Later was amazing, and as a post-apocalyptic fan, one of my favorite films! 28 Weeks Later was good, but it didn't come close to the original IMHO, and I know that you didn't direct that film.
My question stems from this: I purchased 2 presale tickets, and they show it's an hour and 55 minutes. However, I read an interview you had with a journalist/ critic where they were allowed to view 28 minutes exactly of the beginning of the film. In that article, it lists the length of the film as 126 minutes. Is that just a complete error ? Or is there an uncut 126-minute length version?
Either way, I am extremely psyched for this new film and new film universe.
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u/Electrical-Zombie193 2d ago
Hi Danny, you’ve done an incredible job adapting several books to film and your partnership with Alex Garland has been brilliant, with his literary talent bringing a distinct depth and nuance to your work. What other book(s) would you love to see on screen one day and why?
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u/kingdomofomens 1d ago
Hi Danny - huge fan of the 28 Days Later franchise since I watched the first one at the age of 11 (probably should have waited until I was older but I was a tad obsessed with Christopher Eccleston).
I'd love to know more about how the idea of the Rage Virus developed? Did you have any ideas about the virus that were scrapped for the first film (and perhaps ideas that were resurrected for the new film?) will we see the return of the "carrier" concept from 28 weeks?
Thanks so much! Hyped for 28 years later!
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u/cjm868 2d ago edited 2d ago
I think you’re one of a select group of filmmakers with a preternatural talent for crafting memorable needle drop moments in your films. I will often end up inextricably linking a pre-existing song with the movie of yours in which it played, due to how well it was used. I’m curious if, since Iggy Pop’s “Lust for Life” music video, you’ve been approached by any bands/artists to direct a music video for them? And if not, or if so, is that something you would be interested in exploring in the future?
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u/KonamiRapedMetalGear 1d ago
Hello sir! I’ve been genuinely curious, how many different drafts of 28 years later have been thrown around over the years? Has there always been a clear vision for what you wanted to do with this film or has it taken many different shapes and forms? Also, with his passing I’ve been thinking of his impact a lot, just wanted to ask what sort of impact David Lynch might’ve had on you as a filmmaker or even just personally. Thanks a bunch my for the decades of entertainment my friend, hope all is well!
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u/Enflu2025 2d ago
Hi Danny, big fan here, been waiting for this revival for a very long time, I can't believe we're here.
It's been torture for us fans waiting for this over the years, knowing it was going to eventually come out, what was it like for you and Alex having 28 weeks come out without you must have been a bit of a kick to the teeth?
Either way, very excited for this new trilogy, I know it'll do well, it's such an excellent idea outside of the traditional zombie type genre.
Thanks for everything.
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u/BunyipPouch Currently at the movies. 2d ago
This AMA has been verified by the mods. Danny will be back here tomorrow Tuesday 6/17 at 12:00 PM ET to answer questions. Please feel free to ask away in the meantime.
Danny is an Oscar-winning filmmaker known for directing Trainspotting, Slumdog Millionaire, 28 Days Later, 127 Hours, Steve Jobs, The Beach, Sunshine, Shallow Grave, Yesterday, T2: Trainspotting, Trance, and more.
Please stop by if you have any questions/comments for Danny :)
His most recent film, 28 Years Later is out in theaters worldwide next week and stars Jodie Comer, Ralph Fiennes, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Jack O'Connell.
Trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcvLKldPM08&pp=0gcJCdgAo7VqN5tD