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Young actors in zombie blockbuster 28 Years Later, partly filmed in Bradford
YOUNG actors from a Bradford acting agency will be terrifying cinema audiences this summer - in zombie blockbuster 28 Years Later, which was partly filmed in the city.
Directed by Oscar-winner Danny Boyle, the film is a new chapter of the acclaimed post-apocalyptic movie series that began with 28 Days Later.
Joining the star-studded cast, headed by Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Ralph Fiennes, are three students from Baildon-based Articulate Agency: Rocco Haynes, 11, Harriet Taylor, 10, and Hayley Walters, 19.
Rocco and Harriet with members of the cast in costume
Rocco started acting classes aged four and his breakout role was busking in an award-winning Christmas Co-op advert in 2020 with his older brother, Austin. Rocco has since been in TV dramas Gentleman Jack, The A Word and All Creatures Great and Small and films such as Prince Naseem Hamed biopic Giant.
Rocco, who spent two months filming 28 Years Later in Scotland and Northumberland, said: "When I landed the role I couldn't believe it! Danny (Boyle) was so kind on set, both he and the Director of Photography, Anthony (Dod Mantle) made me feel completely at ease. The cast and crew were amazing to work with.
"Even though it's a scary film, the set was full of energy and excitement. I had a brilliant stuntman, Julian, who taught me how to do my own stunts safely. I'm so grateful to be part of such an incredible film.'
Hayley, who has been in TV dramas, Dark Angel and The Dumping Ground, said: "I was doing my A-Levels one day and the next I was filming alongside Aaron Taylor-Johnson, being directed by Danny Boyle, who were so lovely and made me feel so welcome."
Harriet, who was in folk horror movie Starve Acre, said: "I had the best time on set. Thank you to all my teachers at Articulate for helping build my confidence, which made me feel at home on set."
Danny Boyle with the cast at this week's London premiere of the film. Pic: Ian West/PA
Stacey Burrows, Director of Articulate Agency, said: 'This year has seen our young talent cast in some major movies. All three of these young actors are exceptional talents with huge potential. We're really proud to have secured roles in such an iconic film series under the visionary director, Danny Boyle.'
Scenes for 28 Years Later were filmed at the former Richard Dunn Sports Centre last September. Nearby Sunny Bank Road was closed during filming and film crew trucks were spotted, along with several rusty cars and a large crane carrying lighting. Scenes were also shot in Ripon, North Yorkshire.
Film crew vehicles at the former Richard Dunn Sports Centre in 2024 (Image: Newsquest)
In 28 Years Later, released this week, a group of survivors of the 'rage virus' are living on a small island. When one of them leaves for the mainland, he discovers secrets, wonders and horrors. The film series began in 2002 with 28 Days Later, starring Cillian Murphy, which reset the zombie genre for the 21st century. Its huge success led to a sequel, 28 Weeks Later, in 2007.
