28 Days Later’s Darkest Moment Was ‘The Mannequin’
The 28 Days Later franchise is known for its terrifying portrayal of a post-apocalyptic world overrun by the Rage Virus, but according to Screen Rant, one of its darkest moments comes from a comic book series based on the film. The comic series, which follows Naomie Harris’ character Selena as she navigates the infected UK, features a particularly harrowing scene known as ‘the Mannequin.’
The Rage Virus Is Nothing Compared to Human Depravity
In 28 Days Later #15 (by Michael Alan Nelson, Alejandro Aragon, Bill Farmer and Ed Dukeshire), Selina and one of the journalists she is guiding are captured by a group of survivors who have devolved into a territorial gang. Their leader, King Dixon, decides to make an example of Selina by sentencing her to "the Mannequin." As Screen Rant notes, she is placed in a small cage with a red circle drawn on the floor and must remain perfectly still to avoid being attacked by the infected.
Humans Have Always Been the Scariest Part of the 28 Days Later Franchise
The 28 Days Later franchise has always focused on the horrors that humans can inflict on each other, particularly in times of crisis. As Screen Rant observes, the military is a major antagonist in both 28 Days Later and 28 Weeks Later, highlighting how emergency situations can bring out the worst in people. This theme is likely to continue in 28 Years Later, which promises to be a thrilling return to the universe of the Rage Virus.
And That’s Not Going to Change Anytime Soon
With the release of 28 Years Later scheduled for June 20, 2025, fans are eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the 28 Days Later franchise. According to Screen Rant, the film will feature Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ralph Fiennes, and Jodie Comer, and promises to be a powerhouse action horror film. However, as Screen Rant notes, it will have to get creative to match the terror of 28 Days Later‘s Mannequin.
