Star Cineplex, the top multiplex chain in Bangladesh, is treating movie enthusiasts to a triple feature today, February 9. Three Hollywood films – “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple”, “Mercy”, and “Primate” – will debut on its screens simultaneously. These releases have already garnered significant acclaim in the US and other global markets. Star Cineplex is optimistic that Bangladeshi audiences will flock to witness the array of genres, spanning post-apocalyptic horror, futuristic sci-fi, and survival-driven terror, on the cinema’s grand stage.
“28 Years Later: The Bone Temple”, a sequel to the successful “28 Days Later” franchise, hit international screens on January 16. Directed by Nia DaCosta, the film stars Ralph Fiennes, Jack O’Connell, Alfie Williams, Erin Kellyman, and Chi Lewis-Parry. The storyline, set 28 years post the Rage virus outbreak, delves into a fractured Britain ruled by cult-like factions and paramilitary forces. The narrative revolves around Spike, a teenage boy entangled with a mysterious group led by the enigmatic cult leader Sir Jimmy Crystal. The film not only explores infected beings but also delves into human brutality, extremism, and the collapse of morality in society.
The science-fiction thriller “Mercy”, helmed by Timur Bekmambetov and produced by Charles Roven, features Chris Pratt and Rebecca Ferguson in pivotal roles. The plot unfolds in a near-future world, following detective Chris Raven falsely accused of his wife’s murder. His destiny rests on an advanced AI judge, giving him a mere 90 minutes to prove his innocence before the system renders its judgment. The film challenges prevailing notions about technology, justice, and humanity, questioning the true understanding of morality by artificial intelligence.
“Primate”, an American horror flick directed by Johannes Roberts, has already garnered attention at various festivals and was globally released earlier this year. The movie revolves around a family and their pet chimpanzee, Ben, residing in a secluded Hawaiian abode. When Ben gets bitten by a rabid animal, his demeanor takes a violent turn, transforming a tranquil vacation into a frantic struggle for survival. The narrative delves into the repercussions of domestication gone awry and humanity’s vulnerability when faced with nature.
Receiving positive critical acclaim, “Primate” has garnered a 79% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes from 134 critics, with an average score of 6.5/10. The film has amassed a global box office revenue of $32 million, positioning it as the fourth highest-grossing film of the year to date.