"28 Years Later" Trailer Reveals a Hidden, Dark Message
18 April 2025

"28 Years Later" Trailer Reveals a Hidden, Dark Message

"28 Years Later" is generating significant buzz as one of the most eagerly awaited horror films of the year. Continuing the saga after "28 Weeks Later" (2007), this installment kicks off a new trilogy that delves into the aftermath of the devastating Rage Virus that ravaged the UK in the original "28 Days Later" (2002). But beyond the terrifying visuals, the latest trailer holds a secret message for those with a keen eye.

After a teaser featuring the familiar, haunting rendition of "Boots" playing over flashing scenes of escalating violence, a second full trailer has arrived, following the initial one released last year. This trailer not only confirms that the emaciated zombie seen is not Cillian Murphy's character, Jim, from the original film, but it also conceals a code – and it's not exactly cheerful.

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The Chilling Message: Memento Mori As decoded by Film Stories, the symbols that flash throughout the trailer are PigPen ciphers that spell out "memento mori." This Latin phrase translates to "remember you will die." It's often used as a reminder of the inevitability of death and encourages people to make the most of their lives. It's a stark and somewhat unsettling message, suggesting the fragility of existence in the world of "28 Years Later."

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However, this message isn't just thematic; it also serves as a password. By visiting rageleaks.net, a website presented as an in-universe archive of research into the Rage Virus, and entering "memento mori," users can unlock a classified report.

Unlocking the Secrets of Lindisfarne Commune The report, titled "Lindisfarne Commune," references the Holy Island setting of "28 Years Later" and provides clues about the broader world the film will explore. This hidden message offers fans a glimpse into the deeper mysteries surrounding the Rage Virus and the secrets being kept from the survivors.

The in-universe message reads: "The virus brought us more than the rage. The sorrow, for our lost home. The guilt, for the ones we left behind. The righteous indignation for the secrets being kept from us. It’s been almost 28 years since the outbreak. And still, not a single shred of truth about what’s really going on. They say it’s to protect us. It’s for our own good. After all this time, what are they still hiding?

They classify satellite images. They forbid any communication with survivor communities. They suppress rumors and discredit reports that somehow, the infected have adapted. They don’t want us to see. But we must bear witness. All of us." Exactly what this all means will be revealed when "28 Years Later" hits cinemas on June 20th. Following this, "28 Years Later 2: The Bone Temple" will be directed by Nia Da Costa (Candyman), while Danny Boyle, who directed the original two films, will return for "28 Years Later."