Lance Whitney
Updated on: October 13, 2024 4:08 am GMT
In a groundbreaking move for the film industry, acclaimed director Danny Boyle has embarked on a new journey into the zombie genre with his upcoming film, 28 Years Later. Notably, the project has made waves by being filmed with a smartphone—the iPhone 15 Pro Max—marking a significant evolution in filmmaking technology. This ambitious production illustrates how far cinematic techniques have come since the original 2002 classic, 28 Days Later.
Big Budget Meets Innovative Technology
Budgeted at $75 million, 28 Years Later is set to be the highest-budget film ever shot primarily on a smartphone. The film features a stellar cast, including Jodie Comer from Killing Eve, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Ralph Fiennes. As the sequel to the seminal film 28 Days Later, it aims to blend horror with state-of-the-art technology in a compelling narrative.
“We wanted to capture the raw, gritty essence of a zombie apocalypse, and shooting on an iPhone opened up new creative possibilities,” said a crew member who requested anonymity due to the film’s strict confidentiality agreements.
Bridging Past and Present
Boyle’s collaboration with cinematographer Anthony Dod Mantle reflects a nostalgic return to their innovative roots. The original 28 Days Later was one of the first feature films to utilize a digital camera—a move considered daring at the time. Now, both Boyle and Mantle have taken another leap into the future by employing the latest smartphone technology for their work.
The principal photography for 28 Years Later wrapped up at the end of August, with much of the production shrouded in secrecy until now. The confirmation of the iPhone as the main camera was a surprise, given the industry norm of using high-end cinematic cameras for major productions.
“Much of what we see now in cinema can be traced back to those original filming challenges,” Mantle said in a 2003 interview. “The limits we faced turned into creative solutions, and that spirit continues with this new technology.”
How the iPhone 15 Pro Max Stands Out
The film utilized the iPhone 15 Pro Max extensively, taking advantage of its advanced capabilities. With the ability to shoot ProRes video in log color profile at 4K resolution, the iPhone proved to be an effective tool for filmmakers who prioritize quality but need to remain agile on set.
- ProRes Capability: Allows for higher quality video capturing.
- Log Color Profile: Preserves more image data for post-production flexibility.
- 4K Resolution: Ensures sharp, high-definition visuals.
A setup using Beastgrip Pro equipment enabled the crew to attach various lenses and accessories to the smartphones, enhancing the cinematic quality further. This adaptability not only allows for creative filming techniques but also speeds up production, a useful asset when shooting in crowded locations.
A New Kind of Filmmaking Flexibility
Filming in urban environments can be a logistical nightmare. Traditional film equipment is often bulky and requires extensive setup, which can lead to long delays and disruptions. By using iPhones, Boyle and his team could navigate tight filming schedules while still achieving stunning shots.
This flexibility was particularly vital in capturing scenes that reflect the film’s apocalyptic themes. Many action sequences unfold against the backdrop of a desolate London, enabling the filmmakers to create a sense of urgency and immersive storytelling swiftly.
The Legacy of 28 Days Later and Its Impact
The original 28 Days Later not only reshaped the zombie genre but also left a mark on how movies could be made. It was celebrated for its haunting portrayal of a viral outbreak that turns people into rage-fueled creatures, thereby infusing fresh adrenaline into an often stagnant genre.
Cillian Murphy, whose breakout role in the original film saw him as a confused protagonist amidst chaos, may also return in 28 Years Later, although details about the plot and cast remain tightly under wraps. The trilogy planned by screenwriter Alex Garland is expected to explore the themes and emotional depths that made the first film a cult classic.
Shaping the Future of Filmmaking
As technology continues to evolve, Boyle’s latest project illustrates a pivotal shift in filmmaking. The idea that groundbreaking films can be made with devices like smartphones democratizes the industry, inviting aspiring filmmakers to explore their creativity with tools more accessible than ever before.
The potential for high-quality cinema shot on smartphones raises questions about the future of filmmaking. As more filmmakers embrace this equipment, the landscape of cinema may change dramatically.
The Road Ahead for 28 Years Later and Beyond
Scheduled for release in June 2025, 28 Years Later is already generating buzz in the film community. The innovative use of the iPhone 15 Pro Max is expected not only to set a new standard for future films but also to bolster Apple’s standing in the cinematic world. As more projects adopt similar techniques, the conversation around what constitutes a “professional” film may shift.
Filming a much-anticipated zombie movie with iPhones is a brave move into the future of movies. Danny Boyle and his team are not just using new technology; they are also changing how we think about making films. The result of *28 Years Later* might inspire a fresh way of telling stories in cinema that is both popular and praised by critics.
