Drone Filmakademie Ludwigsburg: “Die Quiet Zone”

For the sci-fi feature “Die Quiet Zone” by students of Filmakademie Baden-Württemberg in Ludwigsburg, VR-Copter provided drones and pilot – the drones appeared in the film, plus footage shot with the Zenmuse X5S in 5K.

Project details

Location: Ludwigsburg area, Germany
Project: “Die Quiet Zone” – sci-fi feature
Client / production: Students of Filmakademie Baden-Württemberg
Services: Drones on screen and aerial filming in 5K
Shoot date: 2017

Brief and execution

“Die Quiet Zone” tells of a community hiding from electronic radiation around a radio telescope in the forest. In this story drones are more than a camera: they appear as part of the plot.

Drones on screen need as much planning as aerials: flight paths, distances to the actors and timing are agreed and rehearsed with the director.

Equipment and permits

DJI Inspire 1 and Inspire 2, camera Zenmuse X5S in 5K.

Pilot and camera: Jochen Riehm.

FAQ

Does VR-Copter also support Filmakademie productions?

Yes – for example “Die Quiet Zone” and the documentary “Crankos Traum”, a Filmakademie Baden-Württemberg production with SWR.

Can a drone appear as an actor or prop in a film?

Yes. Then it is not only about the image but also the choreography: flight paths, distances to actors and timing are rehearsed with the director.

What does a drone for a feature film cost?

A shoot day with a drone crew starts at €1,300 net, with Inspire 3 and cinema setup from €2,400 net, and as a combined drone, FPV and car-to-car package from €3,900 net – each including pilot, equipment, insurance and permit coordination.