Aaron Taylor-Johnson recently described his extraordinary acting experience in Danny Boyle’s British horror sequel, 28 Years Later, sharing how an unconventional approach to filming brought a new energy. At the film’s London premiere, the actor detailed how using iPhones transformed his performance and the story’s immersive impact, putting the Aaron Taylor-Johnson acting experience in 28 Years Later at the center of attention.
Filming with iPhones Creates an Authentic Feeling
During the premiere night, Taylor-Johnson discussed how Boyle, the acclaimed director behind Oscar-winning films, chose to shoot much of 28 Years Later using iPhones. He described the process as nothing short of “an interesting adventure,” explaining,
Going to work every day felt like this amazing and refreshing experience because it was experimental.
—Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Actor. This approach added a layer of unpredictability and intimacy, giving the set a more authentic and experimental feel with each scene.
The actor shared that the use of iPhones not only changed the aesthetic of the movie but also impacted his own performance. Speaking about how this new filming method heightened his senses on set, Taylor-Johnson reflected,
gave it a different quality and texture that felt more visceral and immersive.
—Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Actor. The handheld, lightweight cameras allowed for a chemistry between cast and crew that felt gritty and close, making the movie’s horror elements even more powerful.
Danny Boyle’s Vision and Technical Direction
Danny Boyle elaborated on why he relied on Apple’s mobile technology for an action-packed, apocalyptic film. Boyle explained that modern phones now shoot in 4K, providing crisp footage while remaining extremely light. This allowed the filmmakers to be flexible on location, pursue an agile shooting style, and create new camera rigs specifically fit for the unique action sequences in the movie.
Boyle emphasized the practical benefits of this technique, expressing,
go somewhere with very little footprint, and you can also build special rigs with them.
—Danny Boyle, Director. The lightweight cameras also enabled the team to dive into scenes of violence and chaos with unprecedented mobility, enhancing the movie’s impact and style.
Critical Reception and Anticipation for Release
Following the premiere in London, 28 Years Later generated immediate critical attention. Variety’s Peter Debruge singled out Boyle’s fresh take on entertainment and catharsis in horror. In another strong endorsement, Hollywood Reporter’s David Rooney wrote,
Emotionally charged, visceral, and immersive, the new sequel 28 Years Later subverts expectations in many ways.
—David Rooney, Critic. The optimistic buzz points to a film that goes far beyond standard horror fare, blending emotion and action thanks to the creative risks taken with both direction and technology.
Set for a June 20 theater launch, the new sequel carries the legacy of Boyle’s prior successes into a bold new territory for British cinema. With Aaron Taylor-Johnson at the heart of it, the film’s innovative use of technology promises to set new standards for immersive storytelling, leaving fans and critics alike eager to see what comes next for this celebrated franchise.
