London's skyline and the London Eye were transformed into a cinematic spectacle last night with drones.The show marked the official arrival of global streaming service HBO Max in the UK and Ireland, which launches today, with a world-first as the drones interacted with the London Eye acting as the 'O' within the brand's logo.

Crowds gathered along the riverbank to watch more than 500 drones take to the air forming a series of instantly recognisable icons - from Harry Potter, Batman and Game of Thrones. The display also featured the UEFA Champions League trophy.

Said to be one of the UK's largest ever drone shows, the eight-minute performance took 286 hours to programme, with the drones taking off and landing on a floating platform moored on the London Eye pier.

The drones took flight between Westminster Bridge and Hungerford Bridge, bringing the skies over the capital to life as the stunning formation assembled 394ft above the river.

The display magically commenced with the wave of a drone wand, depicting Harry Potter's famous glasses, lightning bolt scar and the golden snitch onto the world-famous London Eye.

The spectacle also saw Superman's shield hovering above the capital's river alongside the Batman search light. While a lotus flower blossomed in the sky, representing hit TV series The White Lotus.

A fire-breathing Game of Thrones dragon also illuminated the night sky above London's Embankment, as the House of the Dragon Targaryen Sigil nestled itself within the London Eye wheel.

Barry Smyth of HBO Max said: "In celebration of the launch of HBO Max, we wanted to create something special for fans across the UK - a simple but striking way to celebrate our stories and characters in a country we love.

"By using the iconic London skyline as our canvas and bringing to life moments from our films, series and sports with a little help from the London Eye wheel, this show comprising 500 drones is a small gesture of gratitude to the audiences who have made these titles so meaningful over the years, and an invitation to experience them all together on HBO Max."