A setup like this Beastgrip Pro system allows film crews to attach lenses, tripods, mics, and other accessories to iPhones | Photo: Apple & Beast
It looks like another movie has joined the list of productions that have used Apple iPhones for filming. Wired reports that Danny Boyle used iPhone 15 Pro Max to film 28 Years Later, the next film in the 28 Days Later franchise. With a US$75 million budget, it has become the biggest movie to date filmed with smartphones.
Staff were supposedly asked to sign non-disclosure agreements that prevented them from disclosing that smartphones were used to shoot the movie. But a paparazzi photo surfaced online that hinted at the unusual filming setup.
It showed star Jodie Comer standing near a movie camera that resembled a typical rig. However, closer inspection showed its long lens wasn't attached to a regular camera body or a high-end modular system like the Achtel 9x7. It looked like it was connected to a protective cage holding something resembling an iPhone.
Wired sought insight from a professional camera operator not involved with the film to point out the gear used. But it was subsequently confirmed by several people connected to the movie. The filming took place too early for Boyle to get his hands on the latest iPhone 16 devices.
The publication said the iPhone was placed in an aluminum cage fitted with a lens attachment adapter. It didn't just protect the hardware but allowed it to interface with large lenses. And with the iPhone 15 Pro Max's advanced video capabilities, it isn't a stretch to think it has been used for this purpose.
As part of Apple's "Shot on an iPhone" campaign, they commissioned singer Olivia Rodrigo to use the iPhone 15 Pro Max to shoot her "Get Him Back" music video.
28 Years Later is expected to be released in the summer of 2025.