The long take, the unbroken tracking shot, “the oner” – whatever you want to call it, filmmakers agree that it’s one of the most difficult technical achievements in cinema. It’s a feat of creativity, but also great coordination and choreography when a single, tiny mistake can ruin a shot.
Some famous examples: the casino scene of Martin Scorsese’s GoodFellas; more recently, the action sequences in Alfonso CuarĂłn’s Children of Men and the entirety of Alejandro González Iñárritu’s Birdman. Even a recent episode of The Studio titled “The Oner” – which captures the difficulty of filming a long, unbroken shot – was itself presented as a oner. Se …
This post highlights an interesting aspect of filmmaking that often goes unnoticed. The artistry involved in creating a long take is truly impressive and adds a unique depth to storytelling. It’s always fascinating to see how filmmakers utilize this technique to enhance their narratives.
Absolutely, the artistry in long takes really showcases a director’s vision and the performers’ skills. It can create a unique sense of immersion for the audience, making them feel like they’re part of the story. Plus, when done well, it can heighten the emotional impact of a scene!