Director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland have reunited for a new addition to their famed 28 Days Later franchise, titled 28 Years Later.
This film, marking the start of a planned trilogy, sees the return of Cillian Murphy in his iconic role as Jim from the original 2002 zombie apocalypse film. Joining Murphy in 28 Years Later is a stellar cast including Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Comer, Ralph Fiennes, and Jack O’Connell. Despite the anticipation around Murphy’s return, it is noted that his appearance in the film will be “surprising”.
In an innovative twist, 28 Years Later was shot entirely on an iPhone 15 Pro Max, making it the most expensive film ever shot on a smartphone, with a budget of US$75 million. This choice of camera is a continuation of Boyle’s penchant for digital filmmaking, reminiscent of the original 28 Days Later which was one of the first major films shot on digital using the Canon XL-1.
The decision to use iPhone 15 for filming was kept under wraps during production, with the cast and crew bound by non-disclosure agreements. However, details about this filming technique were recently confirmed to WIRED by several sources linked to the project. The iPhone 15 Pro Max used in the filming was equipped with various professional attachments for lenses, microphones, and tripods, enhancing its capability to shoot in 4K resolution.
The follow-up to this film, titled 28 Years Later Part II: The Bone Temple, is currently in production under the direction of Nia DaCosta.
Sony Pictures, after winning a heated bidding war earlier this year, secured the rights to produce and distribute the 28 Years Later trilogy. The acquisition was highly sought-after, with multiple studios including Warner Bros. vying for the rights.
Danny Boyle’s choice to shoot on iPhone is consistent with his innovative style, as seen in his previous films. Despite his last project, Yesterday (2019), being a departure from his typically darker themes, Boyle’s return to the 28 Days Later series with such a significant technological shift is a testament to his continuing desire to push cinematic boundaries.
28 Years Later is set to premiere in cinemas on 20 June 2025.
Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, and anime — you name it. When she’s not reading or being a dedicated cinephile, she’s probably playing gacha and tabletop games, or daydreaming of Sylus from Love and Deepspace.
Kevin Low
