Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Michelle Yeoh is set to headline an unconventional new project titled Sandiwara, with the film’s trailer unveiled today ahead of its premiere on Feb 20, 2026.
The 10-minute experimental feature stands out for more than one reason. All five principal characters are portrayed by Yeoh herself, marking a rare creative showcase for the Malaysian-born international star. Adding to its distinctiveness, the entire production was filmed in Penang using only an iPhone.
Directed By Oscar-Winning Filmmaker
Sandiwara is helmed by Sean Baker, the director behind the Oscar-winning Anora, which clinched Best Picture in 2025. The project marks Baker’s first feature shot entirely on an iPhone since his 2015 breakout indie film Tangerine, which was famously captured using three iPhone 5s.
The use of smartphone technology in filmmaking is not new, but it continues to gain traction among major directors. Baker’s latest effort signals that even established filmmakers are embracing compact, accessible tools to push creative boundaries.
iPhone Filmmaking On The Rise
Several other productions have incorporated iPhone-shot scenes in recent years, including Unsane, High Flying Bird and 28 Years Later.
Meanwhile, the upcoming racing drama F1 took mobile cinematography a step further. Apple reportedly modified the iPhone 15 Pro camera system and paired it with proprietary chips to capture footage from the perspective of a Formula One car.
With Sandiwara, Yeoh and Baker bring that same spirit of innovation to Malaysian soil, blending star power with minimalist technology. The film’s premiere next week is expected to draw attention not only for its artistic ambition but also for its unconventional production approach.
