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Apple Rolls Out ‘A Critter Carol,’ a Handcrafted Holiday Short Shot on iPhone 17 Pro

A behind-the-scenes release spotlights professional rigs, practical effects, plus a handcrafted approach supporting the ‘shot on iPhone’ claim.

Overview

  • The story follows woodland puppets who find a misplaced iPhone 17 Pro and record a performance of Flight of the Conchords’ song “Friends.”
  • Apple says the film was captured on iPhone 17 Pro, with fine print noting that additional hardware and software supported the production.
  • The spot showcases camera features including 8x zoom, Center Stage selfies, and Dual Capture using front and rear cameras simultaneously.
  • Behind-the-scenes footage shows hand-operated puppets, puppeteers in blue removed in post, and a forest set built on a platform about three feet high.
  • Directed by Mark Molloy with TBWA\Media Arts Lab and produced by Smuggler and Unit+Sofa on a Prague soundstage, the film is rolling out globally with a U.S. TV cut tied to NBC’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade as early reactions are reported as mixed.