Get ready to be thrilled—a young star from Newcastle is making waves in the horror genre, and his ambitions are as bold as the films he’s in. But here’s where it gets controversial: at just 15, Alfie Williams is already reprising his role as Spike in the highly anticipated 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, and he’s not holding back on his dreams. 'I want it all,' he declares—Oscars, BAFTAs, the whole shebang. But is the industry ready for such a young talent to dominate the scene? Let’s dive in.
Williams, a rising star from Newcastle, returns to the screen in the fourth installment of the iconic horror franchise masterminded by Danny Boyle and Alex Garland. This time, he joins forces with heavyweights like BAFTA winners Ralph Fiennes and Jack O’Connell, proving he’s already rubbing shoulders with the best. The sequel, released in June 2025, was primarily filmed across the stunning landscapes of Northumberland, North Yorkshire, and Cumbria, showcasing the UK’s growing appeal as a cinematic hotspot.
For Williams, the experience has been nothing short of transformative. 'It’s the best apprenticeship you could ask for,' he shares. 'Working alongside so many talented people who become your friends—I’ve learned more than I ever imagined.' And this is the part most people miss: at just 15, he’s not only acting but absorbing the intricacies of filmmaking, setting himself up for a career that could redefine the industry.
Directed by American filmmaker Nia DaCosta, The Bone Temple takes audiences on a chilling journey with filming locations that include the eerie Chopwell Wood in Gateshead and the rustic Plankey Mill in Northumberland. Eagle-eyed fans even spotted Cillian Murphy filming scenes in Ennerdale, Cumbria, ahead of his return to the franchise. With such a diverse range of settings, the film not only delivers on scares but also highlights the UK’s versatility as a filming destination.
The surge in film production in the North East hasn’t gone unnoticed. Gayle Woodruffe, operations director at North East Screen, notes that the region has seen a staggering 131% increase in film production over the past three years, making it one of the UK’s fastest-growing film hubs. 'These shoots have put us on the map,' Woodruffe explains. 'They’ve raised our ambitions and the number of inquiries we’re getting. People see that 28 Years Later was filmed here, and they want in.'
The Bone Temple hit cinemas this Wednesday, with Williams teasing that it’s the 'scariest' installment yet. But beyond the thrills, his unwavering ambition is what truly stands out. 'Why wouldn’t I want to continue this career?' he asks. 'I want to be at those award ceremonies. I want an Oscar, a BAFTA—I want it all.'
Here’s the controversial question: Is Alfie Williams the next big thing in Hollywood, or is he setting himself up for a fall by aiming so high at such a young age? Let us know what you think in the comments—agree or disagree, this conversation is just getting started.
