Jack O’Connell is set to captivate audiences once again, this time as the cult leader Sir Jimmy Crystal in the highly anticipated horror film 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, scheduled to hit U.K. theaters on January 14, 2024, and U.S. theaters on January 16, 2024. Following his recent success in Ryan J. Coogler’s vampire film Sinners, which grossed an impressive $368 million and won the award for best box office achievement at the Golden Globes, O’Connell is poised to further establish his reputation as Hollywood’s favorite anti-hero.
During a recent interview at the luxurious 45 Park Lane Hotel in London, O’Connell discussed his unpredictable nature and the thrill of portraying characters that delve into darker themes. Dressed casually in a cream knitted sweater and black trousers, he illustrated his enthusiasm while reflecting on the current state of cinema. “It sort of fills me with the promise about cinema-going,” O’Connell noted. “I think we’re in quite a frightened era… for people to go and watch Sinners, it’s really, really reassuring.”
O’Connell’s rise to fame began in the mid-2000s with the acclaimed teen drama Skins, where he played the character Cook, a role that showcased his ability to embody complex, roguish figures. Since then, his career has spanned a variety of genres, including David Mackenzie’s prison drama Starred Up, and the historical romance Lady Chatterley’s Lover. He has also appeared in Michael Mann’s racing film Ferrari and the upcoming Amy Winehouse biopic, Back to Black.
O’Connell’s portrayal of Sir Jimmy in 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple promises to be one of his most audacious roles yet. The film, directed by Nia DaCosta, is a sequel that explores the psychological ramifications of a zombie infection, picking up where the previous film left off. O’Connell describes his character as embodying the “darkest, depraved parts of us,” and suggests that Sir Jimmy represents unchecked power within a post-apocalyptic landscape.
In discussing his preparation for the role, O’Connell shared insights into the audition process, revealing that he was immediately drawn to Sir Jimmy’s character. “Oh, really badly,” he stated when asked if he wanted the part. He emphasized the importance of exploring the character’s vulnerabilities, particularly in a scene that showcases a more sensitive side. “I think I remember Nia nudging me to be more vulnerable,” he said, highlighting the collaborative nature of the filmmaking process.
The film has already sparked discussions among fans, with some suggesting that Sir Jimmy may be inspired by the controversial British media figure Jimmy Savile. O’Connell acknowledged this speculation, noting that Sir Jimmy reflects a warped view of celebrity and power, echoing Savile’s unchecked influence during his lifetime. “I think what Alex [Garland] means behind that… is unchecked power,” he stated, recognizing the unsettling implications of the character’s actions within the story.
O’Connell expressed admiration for working alongside veteran actor Ralph Fiennes, calling it a “career highlight.” He praised Fiennes’ dedication to the craft and his tireless work ethic, which O’Connell found inspiring. “You’re never done learning,” he remarked, underscoring the value of collaboration in artistic endeavors.
As he prepares for the film’s release, O’Connell remains hopeful about audience reception. He shared his excitement for the project, stating, “I really love this film. I’m so proud of what Nia has done… I think people are going to lose their minds over it.”
Looking ahead, O’Connell has already completed filming for Ink, a biographical drama directed by Danny Boyle, where he plays the role of Larry Lamb, the former editor of The Sun. He reflected on the significance of the era depicted in the film, questioning the current state of responsible journalism. “Have we lost that? Does that exist now?” he pondered, showcasing his thoughtful approach to the roles he undertakes.
In the end, O’Connell’s journey as an actor continues to evolve. While he revels in the thrill of playing complex characters like Sir Jimmy, he remains grounded in his craft, ready to embrace whatever challenges lie ahead. As the release date for 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple approaches, anticipation builds for how audiences will respond to this latest chapter in his career.
