Cillian Murphy Reveals the Secret to His Breakthrough Role in ’28 Days Later’ – And It’s All Thanks to Danny Boyle

Cillian Murphy and Danny Boyle’s collaboration began over two decades ago with the groundbreaking 2002 film 28 Days Later, which marked a major turning point in both their careers. Murphy’s portrayal of Jim, a pandemic survivor navigating a post-apocalyptic London, was a breakthrough performance, and their partnership has endured, with recent developments surrounding the 28 Years Later trilogy. As anticipation builds for the release of the first film in the series on June 20, 2025, Murphy has been vocal about his admiration for Boyle’s directorial talent and influence on his career.

In a 2022 interview with NME, which celebrated the 20th anniversary of 28 Days Later, Murphy expressed his deep respect for Boyle. “I was in awe of Danny, having grown up on [his films Shallow Grave and Trainspotting], you know, before I was ever an actor,” Murphy said. His admiration for Boyle’s previous works underscores the director’s influence on Murphy before he even entered the world of acting. Boyle’s ability to craft compelling narratives and memorable characters is something that has consistently impressed Murphy throughout their collaboration.

What’s more, Murphy credited Boyle with a particular directorial decision that significantly impacted his performance in 28 Days Later. “Then they said ‘just play him Irish,’ and when I played him Irish, I kind of unlocked something,” Murphy recalled. This insight highlights Boyle’s keen understanding of how to bring out the best in his actors, adapting roles to fit their strengths. For Murphy, playing Jim with an Irish accent unlocked a layer of authenticity that was crucial to the character’s emotional depth, something that was pivotal to the success of the film.

Boyle and Murphy’s collaboration has since become a hallmark of their careers, with the director’s innovative approach to horror setting the tone for the 28 Years Later trilogy. Boyle’s direction in the original film was widely praised for its fresh and thrilling take on the genre, and their ongoing partnership reflects the trust and creative synergy between the two. Boyle has confirmed at CinemaCon 2025 that Murphy will appear in the 28 Years Later trilogy, though likely in later installments, further solidifying their continued collaboration.

While recent media coverage, including updates from Empire Online and The Hollywood Reporter, has focused more on casting news and plot details, Murphy’s reflections on Boyle’s talent continue to resonate. Although newer interviews from 2025 largely center around the upcoming trilogy, the 2022 NME interview remains a significant insight into Murphy’s perspective, indicating that his respect for Boyle’s vision has remained unwavering.

As the 28 Years Later trilogy continues to generate excitement, it’s clear that Boyle and Murphy’s dynamic is one that has stood the test of time, with Boyle’s directing talent playing a key role in the shaping of Murphy’s career and the ongoing success of their projects. Despite the years that have passed, Murphy’s praise for Boyle remains a testament to their enduring artistic connection.