Legends of the Flying Monsters' - Drone Blog

Grgo Sevo: Behind the Iconic 'Severance' Opening Shot

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 04:18:33 GMT

Flying Monster Exclusive: Interview and Behind the Scenes with Grgo Sevo, the Camera Operator Behind ' Severance' Season 2 Iconic Opening Shot

At Flying Monster, we’re proud to have an exceptional team of operators whose skills redefine the cinematic experience. Today, we’re sitting down with Grgo Sevo (English pronunciation "Grrr-go"), the talented drone pilot and fantastic gimbal operator. Grgo was behind the unforgettable opening shot of 'Severance' Season 2 on Apple TV+. This dramatic sequence, which follows actor Adam Scott through the sterile, maze-like halls of Lumon Industries, has been praised by critics for its technical precision and captivating intensity. Grgo’s physicality, technical prowess, and sheer determination brought this shot to life in a way that only a master of his craft could.

Let’s dive into the conversation with Grgo as we discuss the making of that shot, his journey into cinematography, and what it takes to capture moments like this for the screen.

Please enjoy all BTS equally.

Interview with Grgo Sevo

Flying Monster: Grgo, thanks for taking the time to chat with us today. We’ve got to start with the 'Severance' opening shot—it’s one of the most talked-about moments from Season 2. How did that scene come together from your perspective as the camera operator?

Grgo Sevo: It was an incredibly intense experience! The scene was designed to be one continuous, uninterrupted shot that follows Adam Scott’s character through the halls of Lumon. The movement had to be very dynamic; we needed to convey a sense of tension, unease, and confusion, which was key to setting the tone for the season. I had to navigate this maze-like hallway while keeping the camera smooth and in constant motion. It’s almost like a dance—sprinting forward, sliding back, twisting and turning at full speed. All while maintaining precise focus and framing.
The space was tight, and the set was designed to be both disorienting and repetitive, so we wanted the audience to feel as if they were right there, moving with Adam’s character. It was a challenge, but one that I loved taking on.

FM: You mentioned the movement needed to be dynamic. What were some of the unique physical demands you faced during filming?

Grgo: It’s a good thing I go to the gym, haha! It was definitely physically challenging. I had to maintain a balance of speed, control, and intense focus while sprinting, making quick turns, and adjusting on the fly in a very confined space. It was like running a 400m sprint while keeping the camera steady the entire time. The most challenging part of the sequence was sprinting at full speed, then smoothly slowing down, coming to a hold, pivoting, and running backward—all while keeping the camera steady

FM: That dedication really shows in the final product. How did you collaborate with the rest of the team, including the director and other crew members, to pull this off?

Grgo: The teamwork was crucial. I worked closely with the director, Ben Stiller, and the camera team to ensure we had the right angles and the right rhythm. We rehearsed the shot multiple times, figuring out timing and making sure everything flowed naturally. The entire team had to be synchronized, from the lighting to the actors’ movements. Ben had a very clear vision of how he wanted the shot to feel, and it was about translating that vision into something that felt seamless on screen.

Effective communication and trust between the team was key—everyone knew their role, and we all supported each other to make sure everything clicked into place. The challenging part was the precision timing; any little hitch would throw the shot off. But that’s what made it so rewarding when it finally came together.

FM: It’s amazing how the whole team pulled it off. Since the release of 'Severance', critics and viewers have been raving about the cinematography. What’s been your reaction to the feedback?

Grgo: Honestly, it’s surreal. It’s always a bit nerve-wracking putting your work out there, especially when it's something as high-profile as 'Severance'. But the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and it’s incredibly gratifying to see how much people appreciate the work we put in. It’s a team effort, and I’m just proud to have been a part of it. The shot itself became a talking point not just because of the technical aspects, but because it really enhances the storytelling. It’s great to see how the audience has connected with it.

FM: Absolutely! You’ve worked on a variety of projects, but this shot stands out as one of your most iconic. How did you first get into cinematography, and what was the journey like to get to where you are today?

Grgo: I’ve always been drawn to the visual arts—there’s something about capturing moments and telling stories through visuals that has always fascinated me. I graduated with a marketing degree, focusing on graphic design, but my true passion has always been behind the camera. I’d take my drone or camera with me everywhere, filming anything that would catch my eye. After college, I started taking on smaller gigs and building my portfolio. It wasn’t always easy, but every project was a valuable learning experience. Over time, I developed a network of people who trusted me with more complex projects. Working with Flying Monster has been a huge part of my growth. The team here is top-notch, and they’ve really helped me push my limits and take on new challenges.

FM: We’re definitely lucky to have you on the team! What’s next for you, Grgo? Do you have any exciting projects on the horizon?

Grgo: I’m always looking forward to the next challenge. There’s a lot in the works, but I can’t go into too much detail just yet. What I can say is that I love projects that push the boundaries of what’s possible. The technology we’re using in cinematography is evolving so quickly, and it’s exciting to see where that’s taking us. I’m excited to continue exploring new ways to tell stories and capture breathtaking moments on camera.

FM: Thanks again, Grgo, for sharing your insights with us. Your work on 'Severance' is truly inspiring, and we can’t wait to see what you do next.

Enjoy another great BTS video by Vanity Fair discussing the entire shot.

Watch this behind-the-scenes Vanity Fair interview with Ben Stiller and Adam Scott, where Ben highlights Grgo Sevo’s incredible work on the iconic opening shot of 'Severance' Season 2. Get a glimpse into the challenges and creative vision behind the scene!

Project Spotlight: Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 14:10:38 GMT

Flying Monster, LLC Films Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire

A scene from Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire featuring our work filming VFX plates

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire | Flying Monster, LLC

It's not every day that you get to partake in a project that pushes the boundaries of cinema and technology in the heart of New York City. With "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire" now thrilling audiences worldwide, we're excited to pull back the curtain and share a glimpse of our pioneering journey with drones in filmmaking.

The Challenge of the Skyline

Capturing the essence of NYC from the air, amidst its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, presented a thrilling challenge. Our drones, equipped with the latest in camera technology, had to navigate this dense urban jungle, filled with radio frequency interference. Every flight was strategically planned to ensure safe reliable drone operations. With the help of the NYPD and production, we temporarily closed down several blocks of 5th Avenue, Washington Square Park, and even the North-bound exit ramp of the Brooklynn Bridge. The result? Breathtaking aerial shots that bring a new dimension to the Ghostbusters saga.

Collaboration is Key

This endeavor was far from a solo flight. It took an ensemble of dedicated professionals from various departments—production, the NYPD for aerial permissions, the locations team for that perfect backdrop, and the VFX wizards syncing our footage with their visionary previz animations. This symphony of collaboration ensured our drones captured not just footage, but storytelling gold.

Why It Matters

For those of us who live and breathe cinema, the importance of this project goes beyond its technical achievements. It's a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and passion for storytelling. "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire" is not just a movie; it's a landmark moment for filmmakers and technology enthusiasts alike.

So, if you haven't yet seen "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire," go see it on the BIG screen. Witness the culmination of groundbreaking cinematography, heartfelt storytelling, and, yes, a little bit of movie magic, right in the heart of New York City. As you enjoy the film, remember the human touch behind each frame, the passion, and the innovation that brought this cinematic experience to life.

Thank you Ghostbuster Crew for making this dream come true!

NYC Skies Unlocked: NYC Drone Film Permits with Flying Monster

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 19:09:00 GMT

2023/2024 UPDATE!

New Level Unlocked: Flying Drones in NYC is Now a Reality

Welcome to a groundbreaking moment in aerial cinematography! Flying Monster is thrilled to announce that capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of New York City from the skies is now within your reach. As of September 2023, there is a new process to apply for a New York City Drone Permit! NYC aerial filming with drones is now legal. As approved NYPD vendors, we are pioneering a new phase of drone filming in this vibrant city.

This article will outline the drone filming guidelines and regulations recently established. We are working with the NYPD and MOME to get a faster permit processing, but currently we feel there are endless possibilities for your project. With our status as approved vendors, this process is now expedited to just 14 days , giving your projects the best flexibility available. Most drone permits in NYC require 30 days notice. Our team has been integral to the development of NYC's drone policies. We've actively contributed to public hearings at NYPD Headquarters and worked hand-in-hand educating NYPD on how a professional drone set works. This is a historic turning point for the city's drone community, we hope our efforts have paved the way for more accessible and dynamic drone filming in NYC.

Iconic Cityscapes Captured Like Never Before - Where Have We Flown?

Since the introduction of this new permit system, Flying Monster has undertaken numerous successful shoots across NYC. Already, we have flown from the epic streets of Wall Street, Washington Square Park, Iconic Rooftop Skyscrapers, and high profile locations near Manhattan City Hall. All of this with full permission from MOME and NYPD, our drones have captured the city's essence from unique perspectives.

Maximizing Your Permit Potential

One permit now opens the door to either one location for an extended five-day shoot or five different locations over a single day. Our approach is to first understand your project in depth and recommend a strategy that aligns with your goals. This flexibility ensures that your creative vision is not just met but exceeded.

Streamlining Your Production from Anywhere in the World

Our service includes handling all aspects of the permit filing process and crafting detailed flight plans. Plus, with our ability to live stream drone footage directly to any device, your production team can provide real-time direction from anywhere globally, ensuring seamless collaboration.

The Keys to Success:

A Strong Locations Department - In NYC, the permit is just the beginning. Accessing private properties, managing traffic control, and obtaining city park permissions are crucial steps. Our experience underscores the importance of a competent locations department, which we're ready to recommend for your production.
Tech Scouts: Essential Pre-Shoot Preparation- To navigate NYC's complex urban landscape, we conduct thorough tech scouts to evaluate potential radio frequency interference, ensuring flawless operations during your shoot.
Adhering to Legal Requirements- While we navigate the city's new drone permit system, we remain committed to complying with FAA's Part 107 regulations. This includes maintaining visual line of sight, avoiding flights over non-crew members, and respecting the altitude limits.

Let's Elevate Your NYC Production Together

Are you ready to capture the unique spirit of New York City for your next production? Contact Flying Monster today to start the process. Keep in mind, the permit process requires at least 14 days, and additional time is needed to secure locations and other permissions. Let's collaborate to make your NYC production a resounding success. Reach out now, and let's bring your cinematic vision to life above the streets of New York!

Behind the Scenes of an Emmy-Winning Explosion

jtg218@gmail.com (Jon Graham) — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 16:53:57 GMT

Behind the Scenes of an Emmy-Winning Explosion: Monster Drones and 'Last Week Tonight'

At Flying Monster, we've always prided ourselves on pushing the boundaries of aerial cinematography. But our work on HBO's "Last Week Tonight with John Oliver" was an adventure that even we couldn't have imagined. This project was not just about filming — it was about capturing a moment, a feeling, and an explosive goodbye to 2020.

The Challenge: Five Drones, One Explosive Moment

The episode in question was no ordinary shoot. It involved detailed flight plans for five drones, all operating simultaneously, with just one chance to nail the perfect shot. The episode's grand finale? Blowing up a giant "2020" sign, a cathartic end to a tumultuous year, as brilliantly envisioned by John Oliver.

【 Newsweek Article Reference 】【 Primetimer Article Reference 】

The Moment of Truth: Pitching the Unthinkable

I recall the initial Zoom call with the production team. The plan was outlandish, audacious, and almost surreal. Would we really be part of blowing up a massive "2020" sign? Our team pitched using our DJI Inspire drones for general coverage and various camera angles. But then, an idea struck: "What about flying into the explosion?" The silence that followed was unnerving. However, Director Christopher Werner and DP Russell Swanson's reactions were priceless: "Wait, we can do that?!"

The Result: An Emmy-Winning Achievement

Our work on this episode of "Last Week Tonight" didn't just make for great television; it earned us a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Technical Direction and Camerawork. This recognition was not just for our technical skills, but for our ability to think outside the box, to take risks, and to perfectly execute a vision, no matter how explosive.

Watch Now

Introducing the Drone Catch: Flying Monster's Breakthrough in Complex 'Oner' Shots

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 22:41:15 GMT

How the "Drone Catch & Throw" Became Our Signature Technique

We have performed this "Drone Catch and Throw" technique on may show and movies including:

The Greatest Showman
Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
Mr. Robot
Wu-Tang American Saga
American Horror Story
The Gilded Age
Raising Kanan - Powerbook 3
American Sports Story - Gladiator
Leave the World Behind
Billy Joel Documentary

Introducing a New Catch Drone, "The Pizza" FPV Drone.

Garden Fly-Thru Gone Viral!

jtg218@gmail.com (Jon Graham) — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 02:13:06 GMT

With over 500,000 views in a week, this unique perspective captured Longwood Garden's Conservatory like never before.

Visit Longwood Gardens: https://longwoodgardens.org

Located in South Eastern Pennsylvania, Longwood Garden's is a home to many of the World's greatest gardens.

Check out Longwood Garden's Newsletter featuring this video as well as other great content! https://longwoodgardens.org/our-gardens-your-home/look-and-breathe

FM Pilot Dexter Kennedy featured in ASC Magizine

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Tue, 23 Apr 2019 02:49:57 GMT

A fantastic shoutout to Flying Monster pilot, Dexter Kennedy, and his work in After The Wedding, featured in April 2019 ASC Magazine.

Imagine being able to tell a story from virtually any angle while effortlessly moving the camera from one position to another. This empowering reality has inspired film maker Julio Macat to use drone technology in his latest project, After the Wedding . In an article featured in American Cinematographer , Julio describes how he was able to leverage Dexter's experience to help him craft a shot special shot for his film.

After seeing the reactions while working with legendary show runners like Julio Macat, we have no doubt that film makers will continue to chose a flying camera to help capture their dream shots. After the Wedding debuted at Sundance Film festival and had rave reviews. Shooting on an Arri Alexa 65, Julio was impressed with with image quality of our light cinema drone package . Julio chose the DJI Inspire 2 primarily due to budget restraints, but promoted the value of this smaller lightweight drone as a viable option.

Congratulations Dexter Kennedy on another great job in After the Wedding and being featured in this month's ASC Magazine!

Drones 101: Coordinating a Drone Shoot

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 15:53:38 GMT

Local 161 Drone Seminar

Everything You Wanted to Know About Drones

Disclaimer: All material presented, including laws and regulations, technology, staffing, and Flying Monster's best practices are subject to change. This presentation is introductory and should not substitute as an evaluation of any particular shoot. Always check with Flying Monster or another certified drone professional and studio guidelines for the latest laws and requirements.