Soar high, feel the G force with Prime Video’s ‘The Blue Angels’

LOS ANGELES — Strap in this Memorial Day weekend and fly high with Prime Video’s new documentary, “The Blue Angels.”

The Blue Angels have enthralled people across the country for over 75 years at air shows. But what does it take to become a Blue Angel and what does it take to put on a dangerous but exciting show?

The new film takes viewers behind the scenes at the 2022 season and reveals an in-depth look at what it takes to become a Blue Angel, insight into the selection process, rigorous training regime and the team effort it takes to put on a demanding eight-month show season.

Among those featured the film is the first woman demo pilot in Blue Angels history, Lieutenant Amanda Lee.

In an interview with Spectrum News, Lt. Lee gives advice for anyone who would like to follow in her footsteps … or flight paths, is to step out one’s comfort zone.

“Do things you are scared to do. I think you will always surprise yourself. It will open doors. You will find yourself doing some incredible things,” she said.

“Boss” Commander Alex Armatas told Spectrum News that he and Lt. Lee are living proof there is no secret to being able to become a Blue Angel.

“You just need to decide you want to do it and start the process. It’s a lengthy process. Learning how to fly an airplane … learning how to fly a high-performing aircraft like the Super Hornet takes a while. It’s an investment in time. But if it is something that you really want to do, it can be done and anyone can do it,” he said.

Cmdr. Armatas was selected to be the Commanding Officer of the Blue Angels in August 2022 and flew as the Flight Leader in the No. 1 jet, beginning in the 2023 season. He is currently in his second and final season with the team.

The 2024 season will also be Lt. Lee’s last season with the Blue Angels. She joined in September 2022 and says the best memories she’ll take with her will be the people.

“The people are incredible. The people are what makes the team. The professionalism on this team is unlike anything I have ever experienced,” said Lt. Lee.

The film also pays tribute to the loss of the 28 Blue Angel pilots, while also showcasing how the Navy and Blue Angels approach risk mitigation, for example, showing two newly selected pilots passing out during their first time in the centrifuge.

For Cmdr. Armatas, “The Blue Angels” is the first film he has ever been part of.

“The idea of seeing myself on film is a little strange. I think the challenge, for me personally, is going to be to take a step back, and see it as someone who has not lived it,” he said.

Directed by Paul Crowder, “The Blue Angels” is now streaming on Prime Video.

Click the link above to watch the full interview.