Helicopters have long been an essential part of the film industry, playing a critical role in some of the most iconic movie scenes. From high-speed chases to sweeping landscapes, helicopters are used to capture unique perspectives and provide aerial footage that can be impossible to achieve with any other form of transportation.
In the early days of cinema, helicopters were rarely used in movie productions due to their high cost and limited availability. However, with technological advances and the increasing popularity of action movies and blockbusters, helicopters have become an integral part of the filmmaking process. Today, helicopters are used extensively in the film industry for a variety of purposes, from transporting actors and crew to capturing stunning aerial shots.
One of the most common uses of helicopters in film production is to capture aerial footage. Aerial shots are essential in films to provide an overview of the landscape, create dramatic tension, and showcase the scale of a particular setting. For example, the iconic opening shot of Stanley Kubrick’s 1980 horror classic “The Shining” features a helicopter shot flying over the Colorado Rockies, giving the audience an idea of the isolation and grandeur of the setting. Similarly, in the 1995 action thriller “Heat,” a helicopter was used to film a breathtaking aerial view of downtown Los Angeles during a high-speed chase.
Another crucial use of helicopters in the film industry is for transportation. Helicopters are used to transport actors, directors, and crew to and from filming locations, especially in remote or hard-to-reach areas. For example, in the 2015 science-fiction film “The Martian,” helicopters were used to transport the cast and crew to the filming location in Jordan’s Wadi Rum desert. Similarly, in the 2008 superhero film “The Dark Knight,” helicopters were used to transport the actors to the filming location on the streets of Chicago.
Moreover, helicopters are often used in action scenes to create a sense of danger and excitement. The use of helicopters in high-speed chases and stunts adds an element of danger to the scene, making it more thrilling for the audience. For example, in the 1993 action thriller “Cliffhanger,” helicopters were used in several scenes to create a sense of danger and excitement as the characters dangle from ropes and leap from one helicopter to another.
The use of helicopters in the film industry has become an essential part of modern filmmaking. With their ability to provide unique aerial perspectives, transport actors and crew to remote locations, and create thrilling action scenes, helicopters have revolutionized the film industry. As technology continues to advance, it’s exciting to think about the new and innovative ways helicopters will be used in future movie productions.