Apple’s Chinese New Year Film Is a Cinematic Love Letter to the 90s

By The Malketeer

Nostalgia Meets Technology in Apple’s Latest Festive Short Film

Apple’s annual Chinese New Year film tradition takes a bold musical turn with its latest release, “I Made a Mixtape for You.”

Directed by Michael Gracey, famed for The Greatest Showman, this year’s installment is a heartfelt celebration of love, tradition, and the cutting-edge capabilities of the iPhone 16 Pro.

Set against the backdrop of 1990s China, the short film dives into the complexities of dating culture within a society steeped in tradition.

From endearing moments of youthful romance to the weight of family expectations, the story delivers emotional depth with a nostalgic flair.

A Masterpiece Captured Entirely on iPhone

Boasting 4K resolution at 120 frames per second, the iPhone 16 Pro takes centre stage in creating cinematic visuals that rival big-budget productions.

The film’s breathtaking dance sequences, choreographed by Hollywood’s Ashley Wallen, highlight the iPhone’s ability to capture slow-motion effects with unparalleled clarity.

“When [Wei] is doing these big, beautiful leaps that are incredibly balletic, to capture them at 120 frames in 4K resolution is just beautiful,” said Gracey.

The seamless blend of storytelling and technology showcases Apple’s prowess in making professional-grade filmmaking tools accessible to everyone.

A Soundtrack That Strikes a Chord

The film’s use of iconic Mandopop hits—from Jimmy Lin’s “Not Every Love Story Ends with a Happy Ending” to Faye Wong’s “I Am Willing”—enriches the narrative with emotional resonance.

These tracks, cherished by a generation, amplify the film’s nostalgic pull, creating a cultural tapestry that is both personal and universal.

Behind the Scenes: A Global Creative Powerhouse

The project brought together an acclaimed team, including Oscar-winning cinematographer Erik Messerschmidt and Shanghai-based screenwriter Wu Jue Ren, who crafted a script rooted in 90s-era authenticity.

Produced by TBWA\Media Arts Lab Shanghai in collaboration with Partizan, the film underscores the global effort behind this local story.

Director Michael Gracey lauded the iPhone 16 Pro’s versatility, saying, “The incredible thing about iPhone 16 Pro is that you have access to all those things in one device.”

A Tradition of Storytelling

With “I Made a Mixtape for You,” Apple continues its tradition of using the Chinese New Year to weave stories that resonate deeply with audiences while showcasing its technology.

The film’s nostalgic setting and heartfelt narrative reflect Apple’s commitment to cultural storytelling—reminding us that every great innovation starts with a human connection.

Credits:

• Agency: TBWA\Media Arts Lab Shanghai
• Production: Partizan
• Director: Michael Gracey
• Screenwriter: Wu Jue Ren
• Art Directors: Joel Chang, Qin Shi Jie
• Director of Photography: Erik Messerschmidt

Music:

• Not Every Love Story Ends with a Happy Ending (1992) – Jimmy Lin
• I Am Willing (1994) – Faye Wong
• I Love You (1997) – David Tao

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