Halloween may be over, but most genre fans don’t limit their viewing pleasure to simply the month of October. This past November, I’ve spent quite a bit of time with Danny Boyle’s deadly virus frights in 28 DAYS LATER… A few weeks ago, we dedicated a Booze Talkin’ column to the film and the possibility of a sequel. And now, with Halloween and Thanksgiving in the rearview, I had the chance to revisit this incredible work of cinema on the big screen. Last week, Hoodihoo Productions and Plugfones presented 28 DAYS LATER… at the Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills. Not only did fans get the opportunity to see this classic feature on the big screen, but they had tons of extra perks when it came to making this a very special night at the movies.
Chilling with the evenings hosts, Chuck Walton and Ryan Kwanten
When it comes to the modern zombie film, 28 DAYS LATER… is quite special. While it’s technically not a “zombie” movie, the characters are still super hungry for human flesh thanks to a deadly “Rage Virus” accidentally released by a group of animal rights activist. The ideas behind this film hold up especially well, this includes a few jabs at the human race and just how completely f*cked up we can be. This classic tale still holds up when it comes to suspense, chills, excellent performances from Cillian Murphy, Naomie Harris, Christopher Eccleston and Brendan Gleeson and lest we forget, Boyle’s eye for thrilling visuals. In fact, many still consider this as a big reason as to why zombies returned to pop culture and entertainment in such a massive way.
The Sandmen rock the joint!
The celebration began with a two-hour pre-show where those in attendance could get their own zombie make-up done. They could also check out a living dead fan art experience. And for those in need of a frightening photo stop, they could pose for pictures with a zombie or two. And most exciting – for a music fan like me – you could enjoy the musical stylings of The Sandmen. The music/visual portion of the evening was an impressive way to get into the spirit of Boyle’s fantastic feature as creepy images from classics like NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD played during their set. And if that wasn’t enough, the event’s host Chuck Walton and the very talented Ryan Kwanten of True Blood fame, who also moderated a Q and A with the film’s composer, John Murphy.
With composer extraordinaire John Murphy!
Getting my zombie look on with a little make-up!
During the Q and A, Murphy shared a few wonderful stories with Kwanten and his co-host, former Fandango editor-in-chief, Chuck Walton. During the discussion, they opened up with a few entertaining stories about working on the film, and of course working with Boyle. However, the most exciting tidbit happened to be this little bit of info when it came to a possible second sequel. On this particular subject, Murphy told the audience that, “I’m pretty sure it’s gonna happen.” Suffice it to say, that was enough to give the audience in attendance something to scream about. We want a sequel!
John Murphy joins Chuck Walton and Ryan Kwanten for an enganging Q & A!
One of the most inspiring things about the evening was the passion for film that both Kwanten and Walton share. Movie lovers themselves, they perfectly showed fans why going to a movie theatre and truly embracing the experience can be an incredible adventure. After all, cinema as a shared experience with a little showmanship can make for an unforgettable time at the movies. Special thanks to Mr. Kwanten, Mr. Walton, special guest Mr. Murphy and everyone else involved in bringing 28 DAYS LATER… to the big screen once again in such a fun and unique way. We at AITH can’t wait to see what Hoodihoo Productions bring us next!
RANDOM ZOMBIE ATTACK!!!