📈 Horror Sequel Hits Lankan Cinemas Amid Rs. 10 Bn Industry Revival

The post-apocalyptic horror film ‘28 Years Later: The Bone Temple’ premieres today across seven major Sri Lankan cinemas. The release coincides with a significant recovery in the local entertainment and cinema sector, which saw box office revenues surge to over Rs. 1.5 Bn in the first half of 2025, a massive leap from just Rs. 7 Mn in 2024. • Key Screenings: Available at Kandy City Centre, Scope Cinemas (CCC & Havelock City), PVR, Ram, Lite, and Regal Cinemas. • Economic Context: The film enters a market currently valued at approximately Rs. 10 Bn, driven by heavy private investment in IMAX and 4K multiplexes. • Sector Performance: National cinema attendance has seen a resurgence, with top local films in 2025 grossing over Rs. 200 Mn each, reflecting a 75-78% occupancy rate that rivals international blockbusters. • Global Standing: Directed by Nia DaCosta, the film is the fourth in the franchise. It follows the 2025 predecessor, which grossed US$ 151.3 Mn worldwide against a US$ 60 Mn budget. Industry Note: Based on provisional 2025/2026 data, the services sector, including tourism and creative arts, now contributes 66% to Sri Lanka's GDP. Stakeholders continue to push for the removal of import quotas to sustain this growth momentum.