Why Was “28 Years Later ”Shot on an iPhone? Inside the Thriller’s Surprising Filming Method

’28 Years Later’ Takes the Bold Step of iPhone Filming Method

In a bold move, the third instalment of the ’28 Days Later’ franchise, ’28 Years Later’, opted to be primarily filmed using iPhones. Director Danny Boyle chose to use iPhones to maintain authenticity and realism in the thriller. The film, which premiered on June 20, picks up 28 years after a virus wreaked havoc on the world.

The storyline follows a group of survivors who had sought refuge on a quarantined island off the coast of Britain after the virus outbreak. However, their peace is disrupted when someone breaches the safety of the island, uncovering mutated horrors among the infected and survivors.

Danny Boyle, known for his immersive filming techniques, used a camcorder in the first movie to give it a realistic, documentary-like feel that resonated with audiences. For ’28 Years Later’, he chose to continue in this vein by utilising iPhones instead of traditional high-tech cameras. The decision was driven by the lightweight nature of iPhones, their cost-effectiveness, and their ability to access remote locations without clear human presence.

Boyle explained in an interview with IndieWire that using iPhones was a strategic choice to maintain the raw and gritty feel of the film. The flexibility of iPhones allowed the crew to capture shots in rural and secluded areas of England and Scotland. This decision also aligned with Boyle’s vision to create a unique visual experience for the audience.

The crew employed up to 20 iPhones simultaneously, along with drones and Panasonic cameras, to capture different angles and scenes. The use of multiple iPhones in custom rigs enabled the team to shoot violent scenes with heightened impact, essential for a horror movie like ’28 Years Later’. The approach added a dynamic element to the storytelling, enhancing the overall cinematic experience.

Among the innovations in filming, ’28 Years Later’ used iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max devices, known for their advanced camera capabilities. These iPhones allowed the filmmakers to shoot in Apple ProRes video at 4K resolution, delivering high-quality footage with rich colours and contrasts. The filmmakers likely employed video editing software to enhance the visual aspects further.

While iPhones were the primary choice for filming, other cameras were also used to complement the shooting process. Boyle clarified that despite the emphasis on iPhones, a variety of cameras were utilised during production. The blend of different camera technologies contributed to capturing diverse perspectives and scenes, adding depth to the visual storytelling of the film.

’28 Years Later’ joins a growing list of movies that have been shot using iPhones, a trend that continues to gain traction in the film industry. Other notable films that have embraced iPhone filming include ‘Tangerine’ (2015), ‘Unsane’ (2018), ‘Sleep Has Her House’ (2017), and ‘High Flying Bird’ (2019). This innovative approach showcases the versatility and creative possibilities offered by smartphone technology in filmmaking.

In conclusion, ’28 Years Later’ sets a new standard in cinematic storytelling by embracing iPhone filming as a creative and practical choice. Danny Boyle’s vision to maintain authenticity in the franchise through innovative filming methods has paid off, offering audiences a visually striking and immersive viewing experience. As iPhones continue to push the boundaries of filmmaking, ’28 Years Later’ stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of cinematic production.