The use of drones in military exercises is becoming a more and more popular topic of debate and discussion. It’s a glimpse into the possible future of war where avatars can do the recon and, to some extent, the fighting in place of human soldiers and airmen. FilmNation is keen to explore the issue with a thriller from Five Minutes of Heaven writer Guy Hibbert. Until recently, Downfall director Oliver Hirschbiegel was on deck for the project ‐ titled Eye in the Sky ‐ but The Playlist is reporting that with him out, visual dynamo Tarsem Singh is actively pursuing the gig.
“It’s about a drone attack, and what it means to the people playing with their thumbs in Nevada, what it means to the people saying, ‘Go ahead and strike,’ what it means to other politicians at war in Europe, and what it means to the people on the ground where it happens [in East Africa]. There are people who become collateral damage around the globe in a lot of ways. It’s a really contemporary, emotional piece,” said Singh.
The director also claimed he should know in about a week whether he got the job or not, which means you’ll know in about a week as well. At any rate, the giant film, featuring 62 acting roles would be a challenge for the director who is normally known for crafting effects and flat characters ‐ not intricate thrillers with a ton of moving parts.