Overview
- The sequel opens in the UK on January 14 and in the US on January 16, following press screenings and first reviews on January 13.
- Nia DaCosta directs from an Alex Garland script with a cast led by Ralph Fiennes, Alfie Williams, Jack O’Connell, Erin Kellyman, and Chi Lewis-Parry.
- The story resumes immediately after the previous film as Spike is pulled into a murderous cult while Dr. Ian Kelson pursues a cautious bond with an Alpha infected named Samson.
- Critics describe an escalation in gore and a focus on human-on-human violence, noting a tonal shift that blends brutality with unexpected humor and a restrained visual style.
- Reviewers characterize it as a connective middle installment with a studio-approved third film ahead and report that Danny Boyle is expected to return to direct the finale; the film is rated R for strong bloody violence, gore, graphic nudity, pervasive language, and brief drug use.