Apple Collaborates with Palme d'Or Winner Hirokazu Kore-eda for iPhone-Shot Short Film

A New Chapter in Mobile Filmmaking

In an exciting blend of technology and storytelling, Apple has teamed up with renowned Japanese director Hirokazu Kore-eda to create a cinematic short film, shot entirely on an iPhone. The collaboration marks another milestone in Apple's ongoing commitment to proving the iPhone’s capability as a professional filmmaking tool.

Kore-eda, who won the prestigious Palme d'Or at Cannes for “Shoplifters”, brings his masterful eye for human emotion and subtle storytelling to this project. With the iPhone as his lens, he delivers a deeply moving visual experience, all while highlighting the power and flexibility of Apple's latest device.

Why This Collaboration Matters

This isn’t Apple’s first venture into collaborating with big-name filmmakers, but working with Kore-eda signals a growing interest in blending premium storytelling with accessible technology. For aspiring filmmakers and creative professionals, this project is a reminder that great stories don’t need expensive equipment—sometimes, all it takes is a smartphone with the right vision behind it.

Apple continues to position the iPhone as not just a communication device, but a tool for art, cinema, and creation.

Inside the Short Film

While Apple has not revealed all the details about the short film’s narrative, early glimpses suggest that Kore-eda stays true to his signature style: gentle, humanistic stories that explore relationships, identity, and belonging.

Shot on the iPhone 15 Pro, the film utilizes features like Cinematic Mode, ProRes video, and enhanced low-light performance to craft visually rich scenes with emotional depth.

A Statement on Innovation and Creativity

Apple’s choice of Kore-eda underscores the company’s belief that technology can empower creativity, regardless of the scale of the production. In a statement, Apple highlighted its vision to “democratize filmmaking” by offering high-end tools in the palm of one’s hand.

For Kore-eda, the experience was both liberating and inspiring. The compactness of the iPhone allowed for intimate shots and spontaneous filmmaking, elements that traditional cameras might hinder.

Inspiration for the Next Generation

This project isn’t just about celebrating a famous director—it’s also a clear message to emerging creators: the tools to tell your story are more accessible than ever. With Apple pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on a smartphone, the playing field for filmmakers is leveling out.

Whether you're a student, hobbyist, or indie creator, watching someone like Kore-eda embrace mobile filmmaking offers both validation and motivation.

Cinematic Tools in Your Pocket

The film serves as a living demonstration of what Apple’s devices can achieve in the hands of a master storyteller. From color grading and depth control to on-the-go editing and flexibility, the iPhone has emerged as a viable platform for cinematic projects.

Apple has also released behind-the-scenes footage and tutorials to show how the film was made, giving fans a look at the technical side of the production.

Conclusion: A New Era of Digital Storytelling

This partnership between Apple and Hirokazu Kore-eda isn’t just about promoting a product—it’s about redefining the boundaries of creativity. It represents a future where anyone with a story to tell can do so beautifully and effectively with the tools in their pocket.