Ariana Longson
Updated on: October 13, 2024 9:00 am GMT
Imagine a blockbuster zombie movie filmed primarily on an iPhone—it’s not just a concept anymore. Danny Boyle, the acclaimed director known for his groundbreaking work in cinema, has pushed the boundaries of filmmaking yet again with his upcoming project, 28 Years Later. This sequel to the iconic 28 Days Later marks a significant shift in how films can be made in the modern era.
A Revolutionary Cinematic Approach
28 Years Later, scheduled for release in June 2025, has a budget of $75 million, making it the largest movie ever filmed using smartphones. The film features an impressive cast, including Jodie Comer from Killing Eve, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Ralph Fiennes, and it is not just a sequel but the first in a new trilogy. Boyle’s choice to use the iPhone 15 Pro Max as the primary filming device underscores the ongoing evolution of cinematic technology.
- Director: Danny Boyle
- Budget: $75 million
- Cast: Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ralph Fiennes
- Release Date: June 2025
- Filming Device: iPhone 15 Pro Max
From Digital Innovation to Smartphone Filmmaking
Boyle’s earlier work, 28 Days Later, released in 2002, was a pioneer of digital filmmaking. It utilized a Canon XL-1, one of the first digital cameras used in Hollywood, to give the film its raw, gritty aesthetic. Now, with 28 Years Later, Boyle is once again making a statement by embracing the capabilities of modern smartphones.
This shift reflects a broader trend where filmmakers are increasingly turning to compact, high-quality devices for professional work. While many major films still rely on traditional high-end cameras, Boyle’s choice to shoot with the iPhone signifies a potential revolution in how films might be shot in the future.
Technical Details
The use of the iPhone 15 Pro Max allows for impressive filming capabilities, including:
- Apple ProRes Video: Offers high-quality video recording in a log color profile, which retains better highlights and shadows for advanced editing.
- 4K Resolution: Ensures clarity and detail that meets industry standards.
- Lightweight Gear: Makes filming easier, especially in challenging locations.
Filming began last summer and was kept largely under wraps until this revelation. Reports indicate that the filmmaking team was required to sign non-disclosure agreements to maintain the secrecy of their innovative approach.
The Legacy of 28 Days Later
The original 28 Days Later was notable for its fast-paced, terrifying portrayal of zombies—a departure from the traditional slow-moving undead. It became a cultural touchstone in the horror genre. The film’s aesthetic was shaped by the limitations and characteristics of digital video technology at the time, such as its lower resolution and unique color grading.
- Release Year: 2002
- Budget: $8 million
- Global Earnings: $84.6 million
Cillian Murphy starred in the original film, playing Jim, a man who awakens from a coma to find London overrun by “infecteds.” While Murphy did not feature in the 2007 sequel 28 Weeks Later, his performance in the first film remains iconic. Whether he will make an appearance in 28 Years Later remains uncertain, as details about the plot are still under wraps.
What’s Next for the Trilogy?
The next two films in the trilogy will be scripted by Alex Garland, who collaborated with Boyle on the original film and is known for works like Ex Machina and Annihilation. The second installment, tentatively titled 28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple, is currently in production under the direction of Nia DaCosta, who previously helmed films such as Candyman.
The new trilogy aims to explore fresh narratives within the zombie genre while retaining the visceral essence that made the original distinct. As Boyle aims to blend traditional storytelling with modern technology, this trilogy could redefine the expectations for future horror films.
Conclusion
With 28 Years Later, Danny Boyle is not only continuing his legacy of innovating cinema but is also paving the way for future filmmakers to utilize everyday technology in creating powerful stories. By filming with the iPhone 15 Pro Max, Boyle is reinforcing the idea that compelling visual storytelling can come from unexpected places. As anticipation builds for the film’s release in 2025, audiences are eager to see how this new approach will manifest on the big screen. This could be just the beginning of a significant transformation in the filmmaking landscape, potentially inspiring the next generation of filmmakers to embrace new tools and ideas
