Captured on iPhone: “A Mixtape Just for You” - Image Credit: Apple
Apple unveils a new film as part of its Shot on iPhone series, celebrating the arrival of the Chinese New Year with ”A Mixtape Just for You,” which illustrates a nostalgic portrayal of love reminiscent of the 1990s.
As a yearly tradition, Apple showcases short films under its “Shot on iPhone” initiative that highlights the impressive photography capabilities of its devices. Each year, these videos often coincide with the festivities of Chinese New Year; this year’s edition made its debut late last week.
Entitled “A Mixtape Just for You,” this latest film narrates the journey of Wei, who returns home to partake in Chinese New Year celebrations while facing pressure from his family to seek romance. Amidst his exploration, Wei discovers an old mixtape crafted by his parents that transports him into a whimsical 90s fantasy.
Within this dreamscape, he encounters an unfamiliar yet captivating figure and engages in lively exchanges with family members who mirror his current romantic struggles.
Rejuvenated in his belief in love after awakening to the mixtape’s familiar melodies, he descends to witness his parents joyfully dancing and notices a phone number penned on his hand—a potential beginning?
The creative vision behind this film belongs to Michael Gracey, known for directing acclaimed works like “The Greatest Showman,” alongside serving as executive producer for “Rocketman.”
Accompanying it is an insightful three-minute behind-the-scenes featurette demonstrating how filmmakers utilized the advanced features of the iPhone 16 Pro throughout production. While disclaimers state that some additional hardware was employed during filming, viewers will find minimal external rigging evident during these scenes.
In earlier installments of Shot on iPhone films focused around Chinese New Year, creators often integrated various lens types or adapted professional video gear enabling smartphone usage. However, in this latest entry’s case—aside from limited clamps and harnesses—the reliance on additional equipment remained fairly restrained while shooting was predominantly smartphone-based.
Notably highlighted are enhancements related to Camera Control functionalities allowing seamless zoom adjustments without disrupting ongoing filming processes.
Previous releases celebrating Chinese New Year within Apple’s Shot on iPhone collection included 2024’s narrative “Little Garlic,” as well as last year’s offering titled “Through Five Passes.”