Filming Canary Black: Drone Cinematography in Action
In action-packed thrillers like Canary Black, audiences expect cutting-edge stunts and breathtaking visuals, but few would guess that a massive drone would play a key role in some of the film’s most exciting moments. Starring Kate Beckinsale as CIA agent Avery Graves, Canary Black is filled with high-octane scenes filmed in the picturesque city of Zagreb, Croatia. However, one of the standout sequences involves Graves flying through the air, clutching onto a large UAV—a stunt that has already generated buzz. As a professional drone company, we’re always fascinated by how directors use drones (or UAVs, RPAs) to capture dynamic aerial shots or create thrilling action sequences. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the Canary Black drone stunt, share behind-the-scenes insights, and talk about how drones are revolutionising film production. We’ll also explain how our own team has brought drones into the world of film and TV, helping directors achieve their creative vision with professional UAV services. 
The Plot and Setting of Canary Black
In Canary Black, Kate Beckinsale plays CIA agent Avery Graves, who is thrust into a dangerous mission involving espionage, betrayals, and covert operations. The movie centers on Graves’ fight to uncover the truth while racing against time to protect sensitive data from being leaked. Among the many gadgets and high-tech equipment used by Graves, the drone stands out as a crucial tool in her efforts. In one memorable scene, Graves escapes from a tech building by riding a large drone into the sky. This scene showcases how modern technology and spy gadgets are cleverly woven into the plot, with the drone acting almost like a jet pack. It’s a striking visual moment as the drone—larger than life—carries her over the rooftops of Zagreb. The film was shot in various locations across Croatia, with a special focus on Zagreb, where the night-time drone sequence was filmed. Behind-the-scenes photos show Kate Beckinsale suspended from wires, flying through the night as the crew worked to create a seamless visual experience that would later be enhanced in post-production.
How Was the Canary Black Drone Scene Filmed?
As drone professionals, we were immediately intrigued by the logistics behind filming such a complex stunt. In the photos we’ve seen, it’s clear that the massive UAV was likely supported by wires—most likely suspended from a crane or similar rig. These wires would have been removed in post-production to make it appear as though the drone itself was carrying Beckinsale’s character through the air. Upon closer inspection, the drone used in the scene appears to be a scaled-up version of a popular commercial model, most likely inspired by the DJI M600. The M600 is known for its versatility and ability to carry heavier payloads, making it a favorite among filmmakers for aerial cinematography. However, in this case, everything seems to have been enlarged for dramatic effect, from the drone’s arms to the batteries, to give the impression that it could support the weight of a human being. While we don’t know the exact specs of the Canary Black drone, it’s clear that the filmmakers needed to create something visually impressive that would look plausible on screen. This is where CGI and practical effects work hand-in-hand to bring cinematic moments to life.
Drones in Film: A Growing Trend
The Canary Black drone usage is part of a growing trend where drones are taking center stage in action scenes across films and TV shows. From James Bond films to sci-fi TV series like Black Mirror, drones have increasingly been used as essential tools for aerial cinematography or even as narrative devices within the plot. In the past, aerial shots required helicopters or cranes, but today, RPAs (Remotely Piloted Aircraft) offer directors a cost-effective and versatile way to capture sweeping aerial views and complex action scenes. Drones can fly in tight spaces, hover at specific altitudes, and capture stunning visuals that would have been impossible with traditional equipment. At SkyMedia Productions, we’ve worked with directors and production teams on several TV commercials and TV shows, helping them incorporate drones into their scenes. Our team has experience planning and executing complex drone shots, from low-altitude tracking shots to dynamic aerial flyovers. We understand the technical challenges involved, including safety regulations, flight planning, and weather conditions, all of which are critical to pulling off smooth and visually stunning drone footage. Check out our showreel.
Our Expert Take on the Canary Black Drone Scene
From a professional standpoint, the Canary Black drone stunt highlights the incredible creativity that drones bring to action filmmaking. While it’s unlikely that any drone on the market today could lift a human, the oversized drone featured in the film serves a creative purpose, amplifying the excitement and drama of the scene. This use of a UAV as a stunt device demonstrates how the boundaries of drone technology are being pushed in cinematography. Filming a scene like this involves extensive pre-planning, and safety is paramount. The production crew likely worked closely with stunt coordinators, drone experts, and special effects teams to choreograph the scene. At SkyMedia, we’ve been involved in similar discussions for our own projects, where we collaborate with production teams to design drone shots that are both visually impressive and technically sound. The choice to use a scaled-up DJI M600 design is particularly interesting to us as drone professionals. The M600 is a popular workhorse for aerial filming, known for its ability to carry heavier cameras and stabilisers. However, for dramatic effect, the filmmakers clearly needed to modify the design, enlarging every component to make it look capable of carrying a person. This attention to detail in creating a believable UAV prop shows just how integral drones have become in film production today.
How We Help Filmmakers Bring Drone Scenes to Life
At SkyMedia, we love working with film directors and production teams to integrate drones into their projects. Whether it’s for a TV commercial, feature film, or corporate video, we provide end-to-end drone services, from pre-production planning to on-set drone operation. We’ve helped filmmakers capture everything from cinematic flyovers of iconic landscapes to low-altitude tracking shots in dynamic environments. Our drones have been used in a variety of settings, including urban environments, natural landscapes, and industrial sites, making them a versatile tool for storytelling. If you’re working on a film project and are considering using drones for aerial cinematography or action scenes, we’d love to collaborate and make your vision a reality. Our team offers both certified drone pilots and the latest drone technology to capture stunning, high-quality footage that elevates your film.
Conclusion: Drones as the Future of Film Action
The Canary Black drone stunt is a great example of how UAVs are becoming central to modern action filmmaking. By combining practical effects with post-production enhancements, filmmakers can create heart-pounding scenes that push the boundaries of what’s possible. At SkyMedia, we’re excited to be part of this evolving trend, helping directors achieve their creative goals through the use of drones. If you’re a filmmaker interested in using drones in your next project, reach out to us today. We’re passionate about helping you bring your cinematic drone shots to life—whether it’s a simple aerial view or a complex, high-flying stunt.