ADVERT I SEMENT FE ATURE . MARZANO FILMS & THE HELICOPTER GIRLS
SOARING AHEAD Following a string of exciting shoots, The Helicopter Girls and Marzano Films shed light on innovation in the aerial sphere
“ Dungeons & Dragons saw a request for a new aerial payload,” recalls John Marzano, aerial DOP and CEO of Marzano Films. “I was asked by the director of photography whether we could shoot from the helicopter with the Arri Alexa Mini LF in full-frame and a long-range zoom. The only suitable optic was the mighty Angenieux Optimo Ultra 36-435mm. I knew it would physically fit inside the Eclipse XL, but needed to find a way to instal it, because that mechanical hardware didn’t exist. So, it was straight to the 3D CAD software to design parts. We produced the drawings in record time and, following manufacture, successfully integrated the extraordinary camera package. It functioned superbly – and the shots in Iceland, over the volcanoes and ice fields, were spectacular!” In addition to cutting-edge helicopter rigs, the partnership has a fleet of drones. Lighter payloads are easily handled, but larger packages – like the Sony Venice with Cooke Anamorphics and lens control – require super lifting capabilities. Technical director and founder of The Helicopter Girls, Katya Nelhams-Wright,
AERIAL CINEMATOGRAPHY HAS always been an impressive branch of the industry. The unimaginable perspective singularly defines the truest joys of cinema. In recent years, technological advancements have made even greater spectacles possible. Following the official partnering of previously distinct halves, The Helicopter Girls and Marzano Films have become dynamic industry leaders, providing the whole spectrum of aerial solutions. They helped shape countless features and commercials throughout recent months. In doing so, they have provided tools that are sure to revolutionise filmmaking.
IN A DAY’S WORK On set of upcoming The Northman, all of the diverse skills of The Helicopter Girls and Marzano Films were put to the test, with challenging drone sequences and low-flying shots from the helicopter
explains how the advanced machines were used to face another unique set of challenges on the historical film project, The Northman . “The production was committed to shooting on 35mm film with a 400ft mag, but that’s not easy for the drone. Ordinarily, you’d face challenges balancing it with such a bulky payload and limited roll movement, but John was able to design some modifications for the Ronin. Ultimately, we flew the kit with full movement on every axis and didn’t even have to remove the camera when changing mags. We don’t want productions to have to compromise and thankfully, with our technology and in-house expertise, we don’t have to ask them to.”
“The Helicopter Girls and Marzano Films have become dynamic industry leaders, providing the whole spectrum of aerial solutions”
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