Behind the Wings

The Pilot Changing Hollywood Filmmaking - Episode 52

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Aerial Coordinator and Stunt Pilot Kevin “K2” LaRosa shares how he brought some of the most complex aviation movie scenes to life.


In this episode, Kevin discusses designing and flying the modified L-39 CineJet, filming iconic movies like "Top Gun: Maverick" and "Devotion", and training A-list Hollywood actors. If you’ve seen aerial cinematography on the big screen lately, it’s likely Kevin had a hand in it. Be sure to tune in because there's an exclusive announcement this episode! This one is going to be cool!

Want to hear more "Top Gun" stories? Check out Episode 40 with "Maverick" Stunt Pilot Scott "Intake" Kartvedt!

Resources:

  • Kevin LaRosa's Website 
  • Interview: Kevin LaRosa II, aerial coordinator and lead camera pilot for ‘Devotion,’ on those high-flying sequences (Awards Watch) 
  • The Aero L-39 Albatros (Wikipedia)

Chapters:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (01:19) - The Unknowns of Aerial Cinematography
  • (02:41) - Early Interest in Aviation
  • (04:21) - Designing the L-39 CineJet
  • (06:10) - A Special Announcement
  • (07:13) - Filming with the CineJet
  • (08:48) - Picking the Right Cinema Aircraft
  • (10:13) - Filming with the UH-60 MovieHawk
  • (12:03) - A Typical Day on Set
  • (15:29) - Biggest Filmmaking Challenges
  • (17:29) - Aerial Training and Rehearsals
  • (19:35) - Aborting a Shot
  • (20:16) - Filming "Top Gun: Maverick"
  • (22:32) - Working With Tom Cruise
  • (24:06) - Flying Alongside Fighter Pilots
  • (26:38) - Mentally Preparing for High-Speed Stunts
  • (28:12) - Training Hollywood Actors
  • (29:27) - CGI vs. the Real Deal
  • (30:55) - Kevin's Heroes
  • (32:56) - Dream Movie to Work On
  • (33:12) - The Future of Aerial Cinematography
  • (34:07) - Kevin's Advice
  • (35:24) - Lacking an Off Button
  • (36:06) - Outro

    • ...more
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