Apple’s Nostalgic ‘Shot on iPhone’ Film for Chinese New Year

A man lying on a bed surrounded by vintage items.

Apple has launched its latest Shot on iPhone film, I Made a Mixtape for You, to celebrate Chinese New Year 2025. Created using the iPhone 16 Pro, the film tells a touching 90s-inspired story of love, family, and tradition.


The plot follows Wei, a young man returning home for the holiday, as he faces family pressure to find love. During his visit, he finds a mixtape made by his parents in the 1990s. The mixtape triggers a dream sequence filled with music, dance, and romance, blending his memories with a chance encounter in the dream. The story beautifully reflects love across generations.

A man lying on a bed surrounded by vintage items.

Directed by Michael Gracey

Michael Gracey, the director of The Greatest Showman, helms this project. His expertise brings a blend of cinematic visuals and nostalgic storytelling.

Apple released a behind-the-scenes video showing how the iPhone 16 Pro captured the film. While additional equipment was used, the iPhone’s camera technology stood out. Key features like smooth zoom controls and advanced stabilization enhanced the storytelling.


Continuing a Tradition

This film is part of Apple’s annual Shot on iPhone campaign, which celebrates Chinese New Year. Previous films, like Little Garlic in 2024 and Through Five Passes in 2023, have also paired cultural stories with innovative technology.

Inspiring Everyday Creativity

Apple’s I Made a Mixtape for You celebrates Chinese New Year while showcasing the creative potential of its devices. The film proves that technology can bring stories to life in cinematic ways.

Fans can watch the full film and the making-of video on Apple’s YouTube channel.

Share This Article