Apple released “Big Man” on June 18, 2025, as part of its Shot on iPhone campaign. The nearly 20-minute film stars UK rapper Michael “Stormzy” Omari as Tenzman, a world-weary musician who abandoned his craft eight years earlier. After meeting two bright, energetic children, he embarks on a life-changing journey that rekindles his passion for music .
Direction and Performances
Directed by Aneil Karia, known for his work on Beat and The Long Goodbye, “Big Man” blends drama and whimsy. Karia weaves Tenzman’s quiet struggles with moments of playful warmth. Moreover, behind the scenes, Karia appears in Apple’s featurette, explaining how the iPhone’s compact size and flexibility unlocked new creative angles .
iPhone 16 Pro’s Technical Showcase
Furthermore, the film demonstrates key iPhone 16 Pro camera features. It uses the 48 MP main sensor alongside Ultra Wide and telephoto lenses to capture sharp details and sweeping landscapes. In cinematic mode, the device nails shallow depth of field and wide dynamic range. Meanwhile, director of photography Stuart Bentley pushed the hardware to record 4K video at 120 fps, praising its resilience under varied lighting conditions .
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
In Apple’s accompanying behind-the-scenes video, Karia highlights the iPhone’s Camera Control button for on-the-fly camera adjustments. He notes how the phone’s auto-focus and image stabilization kept shoots nimble. Consequently, the crew achieved professional results without traditional bulky equipment .
Legacy of Shot on iPhone
Since 2020, Apple has commissioned acclaimed filmmakers—such as Damien Chazelle, Park Chan-wook, and Takashi Miike—to expand the Shot on iPhone series. Each installment, from the vertical “The Stunt Double” to the neon-soaked “Midnight,” has pushed mobile filmmaking forward. “Big Man” continues this legacy by proving that personal devices can tell deeply human stories while delivering cinematic quality .
Overall, “Big Man” not only highlights Stormzy’s compelling performance but also cements the iPhone 16 Pro as a versatile tool for storytellers worldwide.
