Immersive Film Review: Submerged – A Dive into Apple’s Vision Pro Experience

Apple’s First Scripted Short Film Shot in Apple Immersive Video for the Vision Pro Takes Viewers on a Thrilling Underwater Adventure

Apple has recently released its first scripted short film shot in Apple Immersive Video for the Vision Pro, titled Submerged. Directed by Oscar winner Edward Berger, the film takes viewers on a gripping journey inside a WWII submarine that is under attack.

The unique aspect of Submerged is its immersive experience, allowing viewers to feel like they are inside the submarine alongside the crew trying to escape. The film was screened at Apple’s demo space in Manhattan, where viewers could strap on the Vision Pro headset and be transported into the heart-pounding action.

One of the most intriguing features of watching an immersive film inside the Vision Pro is the ability to have a ghostly agency within the narrative. Viewers can choose to focus on different elements of the scene, whether it’s the main characters or the background details, creating a truly interactive viewing experience.

However, adapting traditional filmmaking to a more immersive 180-degree field of view comes with its own set of challenges. Director Edward Berger had to carefully plan and storyboard every shot to ensure that the camera movements and scene details would translate effectively in the Vision Pro.

The result is a truly impressive and immersive experience for viewers. From feeling the rush of water in the sinking submarine to the claustrophobic corridors and intense action sequences, Submerged succeeds in making viewers feel like they are part of the story.

While Submerged serves as a technologically impressive proof-of-concept for high-quality immersive content, it also raises questions about the lonelier aspect of experiencing such films. With the need for a Vision Pro headset to watch the film, it becomes a solitary experience that may be challenging to share with others.

Director Edward Berger acknowledges that not every movie needs to be made for immersive headsets, but sees the Vision Pro as a tool for pushing the boundaries of storytelling. Ultimately, while the immersive experience of Submerged is captivating, it raises the question of whether such technology is necessary for immersing oneself in a good story.

As mixed reality technology continues to evolve, films like Submerged offer a glimpse into the possibilities of immersive storytelling, but also highlight the challenges of bridging the gap between the virtual world and reality.