Lecture on the Film '28 Days Later'

Introduction

• Presenter: James A. Janisse
• Topic: Overview and analysis of the 2002 film '28 Days Later'
• Significance: This film is considered a benchmark in horror cinema, touching upon post-9/11 themes and redefining the zombie genre.

Key Contributors

• Alex Garland: Screenwriter, known for 'The Beach' and later works like 'Ex Machina'.
• Danny Boyle: Director, previously directed 'Trainspotting', later 'Slumdog Millionaire'.

Film Overview

• Plot: Follows survivors in Britain after a 'Rage Virus' outbreak. The infected become violent but are not technically undead.
• Zombie Inspiration: Inspired by 'Resident Evil' games and real-world diseases like Ebola and HIV.

Unique Aspects of the Film

• Depicts Social Rage: Boyle viewed it as a reflection on societal rage rather than a typical zombie film.
• Comparison to Romero's Trilogy: The film explores similar themes of survival, settling in a new reality, and dealing with military control.
• Fast Zombies: Introduced fast-moving infected, influencing later films like 'Dawn of the Dead' (2004).

Visual and Production Techniques

• Digital Filmmaking: One of the first major films shot digitally, creating an eerie, low-resolution aesthetic reminiscent of early 2000s media.
• Filming Challenges: Shooting in London required early morning sessions to capture empty streets, similar restrictions for motorway scenes.

Themes and Social Commentary

• Post-9/11 Zeitgeist: Captures the essence of the early 2000s through its style and tone.
• Social Commentary: Critique on media consumption and societal outrage.

Plot Points

• Opening Scene: Demonstrates the rage virus's rapid spread through eco-terrorist actions.
• Characters: Jim (Cillian Murphy), and Selena (Naomie Harris) are central characters.
• Survival Journey: They face challenges and meet other survivors like Frank and Hannah.

Notable Scenes

• London Scenes: Iconic empty cityscape sequences.
• Gas Station Explosion: A practical effect involving clearing 20 blocks in London.

Character Development

• Jim and Selena: Transition from strangers to allies.
• Frank and Hannah: Introduce a family dynamic into the survival narrative.

Film's Legacy

• Impact on Zombie Genre: Changed how zombies are depicted in films by introducing speed.
• Cultural Reflection: The film’s style and filming techniques mirror the societal conditions of the time.

Conclusion

• Success and Influence: '28 Days Later' was successful and influential, leading to a sequel '28 Weeks Later'.
• Presenter's Sign-off: Mentions upcoming events and thanks patrons for support.

The notes capture the essence of the lecture on the film '28 Days Later', providing insights into the film's production, themes, and legacy within the horror genre.