The story begins with a group of animal rights activists breaking into a research laboratory to free chimpanzees that are being subjected to experiments involving a highly contagious and rage-inducing virus known as “Rage.” Despite warnings from a scientist, the activists release one of the infected chimps, which attacks and infects them.
Twenty-eight days later, Jim (played by Cillian Murphy), a bicycle courier, wakes up from a coma in a deserted hospital in London. He discovers that the city is eerily quiet and deserted, with signs of chaos and destruction everywhere. Confused and disoriented, Jim wanders the empty streets in search of other survivors.
Jim eventually encounters a group of survivors, including Selena (played by Naomie Harris) and Mark (played by Noah Huntley), who explain to him the severity of the situation. They inform Jim that the Rage virus has spread rapidly throughout the population, turning people into violent, bloodthirsty creatures known as “the Infected.”
Together, the group embarks on a journey to find safety and sanctuary, facing numerous dangers and obstacles along the way. They encounter other survivors, including a father and daughter, Frank (played by Brendan Gleeson) and Hannah (played by Megan Burns), who have taken refuge in a fortified apartment building.
As they struggle to survive in a world overrun by the Infected, the group must contend with not only the threat of the virus but also the depravity of other survivors who have turned to violence and savagery to survive. They are forced to make difficult decisions and confront their own humanity in the face of unimaginable horror.
In their quest for safety, the group hears a radio broadcast from a group of soldiers claiming to have created a safe zone in the north of England. Desperate for salvation, they decide to make the journey to the supposed sanctuary, unaware of the dangers that await them.
Upon reaching the military outpost, the survivors are initially relieved to find food, shelter, and protection. However, they soon discover that the soldiers’ intentions are not as benevolent as they seem. The soldiers plan to subjugate the women and repopulate the country by force, using them as breeding stock.
In the climactic confrontation, Jim and Selena fight back against the soldiers, ultimately defeating them and rescuing Hannah. They make their escape from the outpost and head towards a remote cottage in the countryside, where they hope to find peace and safety away from the chaos of the outside world.
“28 Days Later” is praised for its innovative storytelling, intense atmosphere, and social commentary on human nature and survival. With its gritty realism, chilling depiction of a world ravaged by disease, and powerful performances, the film has become a cult classic in the horror genre.