In the ever-evolving landscape of cinema, director Neil Burger’s latest offering, Inheritance, emerges as a testament to original storytelling and innovative filmmaking techniques. This globetrotting espionage thriller not only delves deep into a story of secrets and self-discovery, but also breaks new ground given that it was shot entirely on an iPhone.
Neil Burger is an acclaimed US filmmaker known for his visually striking and thought-provoking work. He gained widespread recognition with The Illusionist (2006), a mystery period drama starring Edward Norton, which highlighted his knack for blending intrigue with rich storytelling. Burger solidified his reputation with Limitless (2011), a sci-fi thriller featuring Bradley Cooper as a struggling writer who gains superhuman intelligence through a mysterious drug.
His directorial portfolio also includes the dystopian sci-fi film Divergent (2014), the survival drama The Marsh King’s Daughter (2023), and The Upside (2017), a heartwarming remake of the French hit The Intouchables. Known for his ability to seamlessly navigate different genres, Burger continues to push cinematic boundaries, as seen in his latest film, Inheritance, where he uses iPhone technology to revolutionise the spy-thriller genre.
In Inheritance, we follow Maya, portrayed by Phoebe Dynevor (best known for her breakout role as Daphne in Bridgerton), a young woman who uncovers her estranged father Sam’s past as a spy. This revelation draws her into a labyrinth of international intrigue, compelling her to navigate her way through a world filled with danger and deception. The film traverses a slew of global locales — including New York, Cairo, Delhi and Seoul — capturing the essence of each city with an authenticity rarely seen in traditional filmmaking.
The decision to shoot the film on iPhone was not merely a stylistic choice, but rather a deliberate strategy to achieve a certain level of intimacy and realism. Burger explains, “We used the iPhone for access, not as a gimmick ... so that we could walk through a crowded Cairo market and nobody would look at us.”
This approach allowed the crew to film in bustling environments without drawing attention to themselves, thereby preserving the natural ambience of each setting.
Rhys Ifans, who plays Sam, found the unconventional filming method refreshing. He remarked, “The exciting thing for me was shooting it all on an iPhone ... it was very kinetic, immediate, exciting and quick.”
This spontaneity translates into performances that feel genuine and uncontrived, enhancing the film’s immersive quality.
The narrative structure of Inheritance is meticulously crafted, intertwining personal drama with high-stakes espionage. Burger emphasises the importance of a strong character arc, explaining, “Film is about emotion. Film is about creating an experience for the audience or just creating an experience.”
Maya’s journey is not just a physical one across continents, but also an emotional odyssey made as she grapples with her identity and newfound truths about her family.
With Inheritance, Burger has crafted a gripping espionage thriller that pushes the boundaries of modern filmmaking. By using an iPhone to capture its high-stakes drama, the film delivers an unparalleled sense of immediacy and realism, immersing audiences in a world of secrets, betrayals and unexpected revelations. Whether you’re looking for suspenseful storytelling, stunning global locations or a bold cinematic approach, this is a film not to be missed when it is released in cinemas this Friday.
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