Bangladesh’s leading multiplex chain Star Cineplex is set to bring a triple cinematic treat for moviegoers, as three Hollywood films hit its screens today, February 9, simultaneously. The lineup includes the much-anticipated sequel 28 Years Later: “The Bone Temple”, the science-fiction thriller “Mercy”, and the horror feature “Primate”.
According to Star Cineplex authorities, all three releases have already drawn significant attention from critics and audiences in the United States and other international markets. The multiplex is hopeful that Bangladeshi viewers will also turn out in large numbers to experience the diverse genres—ranging from post-apocalyptic horror and futuristic sci-fi to survival-driven terror—on the big screen.
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
Released internationally on January 16, 28 Years Later: “The Bone Temple” is both a sequel to 28 Years Later and the fourth instalment in the 28 Days Later franchise. The previous film, directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Danny Boyle, achieved massive commercial success, surpassing earlier entries in the series.
Directed by Nia DaCosta, the new chapter stars Ralph Fiennes, Jack O’Connell, Alfie Williams, Erin Kellyman, and Chi Lewis-Parry.
Set 28 years after the Rage virus outbreak, the film presents a fractured Britain ruled by cult-like groups and paramilitary powers. At the heart of the story is a teenage boy, Spike, who becomes entangled with a mysterious faction led by the charismatic yet terrifying cult leader Sir Jimmy Crystal. Alongside this, scientist Dr Ian Kelson works on a project that could redefine humanity’s future—raising the question of whether salvation or deeper control lies ahead. Rather than focusing solely on infected beings, the film explores human brutality, extremism, and the moral collapse of civilisation.
Mercy
The science-fiction thriller “Mercy” is directed by Timur Bekmambetov and produced by Charles Roven. The film stars Chris Pratt and Rebecca Ferguson in leading roles.
Set in a near-future world, the story follows detective Chris Raven, who is falsely accused of murdering his wife. His fate is placed in the hands of an advanced AI judge, and he has just 90 minutes to prove his innocence before the system delivers its verdict. Filmed almost entirely in real time, “Mercy” raises urgent questions about technology, justice, and humanity—asking whether artificial intelligence can truly understand morality or merely process data.
Primate
Directed by Johannes Roberts, the American horror film “Primate” has already screened at multiple festivals and was released globally earlier this year. The cast includes Johnny Sequoyah, Jessica Alexander, Troy Kotsur, Victoria Wint, and Gia Hunter.
The film centres on a family and their pet chimpanzee, Ben, living in a remote Hawaiian home. When Ben is bitten by a rabid animal, his behaviour turns violently aggressive, transforming a peaceful vacation into a desperate fight for survival. The narrative explores themes of domestication gone wrong and humanity’s vulnerability in the face of nature.
“Primate” has received positive critical response, earning 79% approval on Rotten Tomatoes from 134 critics, with an average rating of 6.5/10. The film has already grossed $32 million worldwide, making it the fourth highest-grossing film of the year so far.
