Apple has made a significant leap in storytelling with the release of “Submerged,” the first scripted short film designed specifically for its Vision Pro headset. Launched on October 10, 2024, this 17-minute film immerses viewers in a World War II submarine as the crew grapples with a harrowing torpedo attack.
The movie was directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Edward Berger, known for his work on All Quiet on the Western Front, “Submerged” showcases the potential of Apple Immersive Video, which combines high-resolution 3D visuals and Spatial Audio to create an unparalleled viewing experience.
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Vision Pro redefines filmmaking
“Submerged” is not just another short film; it becomes a new model of how the submarine narrative can be achieved in films. Shot entirely with Apple’s own first-person POV cameras called immersive cameras, the film also features a stunning 180-degree video with 8K resolution so the audience feels immersed in it.
According to Tor Myhren, Apple’s VP of Marketing Communications, Vision Pro “puts you right into the scene—inside a highly detailed and dense submarine with the crew breathing down your neck.” It moves a simple viewer to a role player, where audiences can navigate the environment and interact with the plot.
Principal photography took place in Prague, Brussels, and Malta, and a full-scale submarine set was constructed to sit on a stage that accommodated water immersion. Even stunt work where sparks, steam and water endanger the rolling cameras is also realistic.
This technology, according to Berger, affects how stories can be narrated in a particular way, as he noted when saying, “Apple Immersive Video expands the horizon of storytelling”.
Immersion and intimacy in ‘Submerged’
Early reviews highlight the film’s ability to evoke intense emotions and create a sense of intimacy with the characters. Viewers have reported feeling like they were right there with the crew, experiencing their fear and desperation firsthand.
One reviewer noted feeling “face-to-face with the crew” as they tried to survive the attack, which added a layer of emotional depth that traditional films often lack.
However, while the immersive experience is groundbreaking, some viewers have expressed discomfort with wearing the Vision Pro headset for extended periods.
By and large, many agree that “Submerged” sets a new standard for immersive storytelling and showcases what is possible with Apple’s technology.
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Future plans for immersive content from Apple
After “Submerged,” Apple has similar projects in the pipeline. The latest ad short is yet to come, based on the upcoming 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend.
Grammy award-winning artiste, The Weeknd, has also joined Apple in an upcoming music-based immersive experience with his brand new project, Hurry Up Tomorrow.
Submerged underscores how the tool can be effective in storytelling, especially as Apple continues to push the limits of immersive video.
Not only is the story exciting, it also inspires viewers to think about cinematic possibilities thanks to its incredibly high-quality sound and images.
The ability of filmmakers to consistently create fresh experiences can keep viewers waiting for even better ones that will push the boundaries of storytelling.