Director Danny Boyle has opened up about the decision to feature Britain’s most iconic tree in his post-apocalyptic sequel, 28 Years Later.
Despite the Sycamore Gap tree being felled in a shocking act of vandalism over a year before filming, the film brings the beloved tree back to life in a stunning visual recreation.
Sycamore Gap, a 150-year-old tree nestled next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, became one of the most recognizable landmarks in England. It even featured in the 1991 hit movie Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, earning the nickname ‘the Robin Hood tree.’ The tree became an enduring symbol of British heritage and culture, making its destruction in September 2023 all the more tragic.
In a devastating act of vandalism, two men filmed themselves cutting down the tree, causing significant damage not only to the tree but also to the ancient Roman Hadrian’s Wall. The act of deliberate destruction shocked the nation, and the culprits, both in their 30s, were arrested and later convicted of causing £623,335 worth of damage. Though the two men are awaiting sentencing, their actions left the public fuming.
But, in 28 Years Later, the tree lives on. Boyle explained how the film had the opportunity to ‘resurrect’ the tree for the movie, allowing it to stand tall in its post-apocalyptic world. Speaking to IGN, Boyle said that incorporating such cultural icons, like the Sycamore Gap tree, into the narrative was a chance to sneak in little ‘Easter eggs’ for fans. ‘We deliberately recreated it to show that it was still growing, which is a wonderful tribute to one of their most beautiful icons,’ he shared.
The decision to include the tree was part of a broader effort to capture the essence of British landmarks in the movie. ‘It was a real privilege that we felt we couldn’t ignore,’ Boyle added. The recreated tree serves as a symbol of hope in an otherwise grim world, providing a sharp contrast to the devastation depicted in the film.
While the movie’s world might be falling apart, the presence of the Sycamore Gap tree offers a glimmer of nostalgia for British audiences. Boyle’s homage to the iconic landmark is a heartfelt nod to the country’s history and a reminder of the beauty that once stood there.
For fans of the 28 Days Later franchise, it’s another moment to appreciate the small victories in a post-apocalyptic world. You can catch up on 28 Days Later now streaming for free.