How to Film an Epic Car Commercial

Ever wondered what it takes to create an epic car commercial? The kind of video that screams power, precision, and pure adrenaline? Join Peter Lindgren as he takes us behind the scenes of filming an unforgettable spot for the Dodge Challenger Redeye. It’s not just about pointing a camera and hitting record—it’s about crafting a visceral experience that captures the essence of American muscle in every frame.

The Vision: Grit, Power, and Drama

The concept for this commercial was clear from the start: embody the raw, unbridled energy of the Challenger Redeye. Inspired by the intense, cinematic feel of American muscle car culture, Peter and his team set out to create a visual journey that would evoke toothpick-gripping tension and heart-pounding action. Think fast cuts, roaring engines, and dramatic angles—all achieved without the luxury of a massive production crew.

The Process: Every Shot Counts

Starting Strong: Drone Magic

To kick things off, Peter piloted a drone to capture sweeping, dynamic shots of the car in action. Flying in sports mode while simultaneously driving wasn’t exactly easy. The challenge? Maintaining focus on the drone while ensuring the car hit its marks on the road. The result? Cinematic footage that made it worth every nerve-wracking moment.

In-Car Perspectives

For the interior shots, Peter used a 24mm GM lens and relied on handheld techniques to convey the car’s visceral energy. With his Shinobi Atomos monitor ensuring perfect exposure, every shot was meticulously framed to highlight the Challenger’s luxurious yet aggressive interior.

When the gimbal came into play, Peter ensured it was perfectly balanced by stripping unnecessary weight—showing his attention to detail. Thinking about making a tutorial on gimbal shots? Peter teased that idea, inviting his community to chime in.

Building the Drama

To create the illusion of speed—without risking a speeding ticket—Peter rigged up a 70-200mm lens to focus on the speedometer. With clever editing and handheld effects, he planned to simulate the gauge climbing rapidly, matching the Redeye’s ferocious reputation.

But it wasn’t just about what the car could do. Shots of Oscar, the driver, pressing the pedal to the floor added a human element, emphasizing the connection between driver and machine.

The Final Shot

As daylight waned, Peter and his team brainstormed the perfect hero shot to close the commercial. Their idea? Position the Challenger in a commanding stance with dramatic lighting and a cinematic backdrop. The goal was simple: leave viewers awestruck.

Lessons in Creativity and Gear

Peter’s toolkit was as impressive as his creative vision. From the Sony A7SIII to drones and gimbals, every piece of gear played a role in bringing this project to life. He also stressed the importance of consistent white balance and exposure across cameras, ensuring seamless transitions between shots.

Artlist.io, a sponsor of the video, provided the high-quality music and sound effects that elevated the project. If you’re looking to take your own videos to the next level, Peter recommends giving Artlist a try.

Meet the Machine

The star of the shoot—the Dodge Challenger Redeye—is a beast built for smiles and speed. Courtesy of Nordic Supercars, this car isn’t just for show. For those craving the thrill of driving such a monster, you can rent it for an unforgettable experience.

Watch the Final Result

After hours of filming, brainstorming, and adrenaline-fueled creativity, Peter wrapped up the shoot. The result? A breathtaking commercial that embodies the soul of the Dodge Challenger Redeye.

Check out the full behind-the-scenes video and see the finished commercial on Peter Lindgren’s YouTube channel. Want to dive deeper into videography, Final Cut Pro tips, or gear reviews? Subscribe to Peter’s channel and follow him on Instagram for more creative insights.

Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a budding filmmaker, or just someone who appreciates great storytelling, this video is a must-watch.