Who are the Slow Lows in 28 Years Later and why are they built that way? Details explored

In the 2025 sequel to 28 Days Later (2002), titled 28 Years Later, we witness the consequences of the rage virus, and it is even more potent, dangerous, and unpredictable than one could have imagined. By consequences, we mean zombie mutations caused by the virus. One of such evolutions is the Slow Lows. So, who are they actually?

Disclaimer: This article contains major spoilers for 28 Years Later. Reader discretion is advised.

Slow Lows are the ones who, after getting infected by the virus, have turned into plump creatures who survive on bugs. They only move by crawling on the ground, with their stomachs. They cause almost little to no harm, but can get agitated if stirred.

Keep reading to find out more about the Slow Lows in 28 Years Later.

The Slow-Lows in 28 Years Later, explained

28 Years Later, it follows the events that take place almost three decades after the outbreak of the rage virus in Britain. Outside the mainland lives a boy named Spike, who, along with his father Jamie, embarks on a hunting expedition that requires them to travel to the mainland.

In the forests, the father-son duo find themselves around the mutated zombies who have evolved under the influence of the virus. One of the species of such creatures that they discover includes the Slow-Lows.

These sluggish, squirmy beings feed off the insects on the land, and their bodies are puffed out and bare. They have light, speckled skin with no hair. They creep along the ground rather than walking. While speaking to IndieWire in their podcast, director Danny Boyle explains the nature of Slow-Lows in the film by stating:

“There are some creatures who live on the ground, who have obviously decided not to expend energy, and they’ll lower their energy expenditure and therefore their nutritional needs as they scavenge on the ground amongst worms and grubs and berries.”

Going by the description, it does not seem that the Slow-Lows could be that dangerous due to their stoic nature. But if needed, they could be harmful as well, as Boyle adds:

“They’re much more passive, but dangerous if provoked or alarmed.”

Since Slow-Lows do not pose any direct threat, Jamie and Spike often use them for their weapon practice. With the right planning and strategies, Slow-Lows can be easily taken down. They are also known as the 'Fat Ones' in 28 Years Later.

But why are the bodies of these zombies bloated?

Well, the swelling is due to their tissues being inflated. They have little energy to spare, and they sustain their survival through creepy-crawlies such as bugs and worms. So perhaps, the excessive body fat and their slow movement could help them to conserve energy and survive. But if push comes to shove, these compact zombies could stand on their two feet and make a sprint.

Slow-Lows are the complete opposite of the Alphas, which have more muscle mass than the former. Much rarer in sight and bulked up like bodybuilders, Alphas are lethal and can easily kill humans.

Have you watched 28 Years Later? Tell us your insights in the comments!