Wide shots of an empty London are among the most memorable images in 28 Days Later. They were made possible partly because the crew could move quickly with much smaller equipment than standard 35mm film units.
American Cinematographer documents the use of multiple Canon XL1 MiniDV cameras, sometimes as many as eight, to grab fleeting windows of access on streets normally packed with people and cars.
It is an extraordinary reminder that a seemingly humble consumer-format camcorder could make a major contribution to the visual identity of a celebrated theatrical film.
Connected cameras and equipment
- Canon XL1 MiniDV — 28 Days Later: deserted London (2002)
Sources and verification
We link to contemporary interviews, museum collections, manufacturer histories and specialist cinematography records when available. Historical camera attribution and an item being screen-used are different claims.