Photo credit: movieweb.com
In recent years, the one-shot technique has transformed from a unique filmmaking method into a captivating element increasingly favored in movies and television. This approach, which makes a film or TV episode appear as a singular continuous take—whether genuinely unbroken or skillfully edited—is gaining momentum, especially in the realm of television. Notable examples include episodes like “Review” from Season 1 of The Bear, “The Oner” from Apple TV+’s The Studio, and this year’s acclaimed Netflix series Adolescence.
Technological advancements have played a crucial role in the rise of the one-shot. Not only does it showcase a cinematographer’s skill and actors’ performances, but it also has the potential to build tension within a storyline. However, its growing prevalence raises concerns about diminishing its impact due to Hollywood’s tendency to rely on familiar trends.
Why One-Shots Have Become So Popular
The concept of one-shot filmmaking is not new; it has existed for decades. Early examples faced considerable physical limitations due to the nature of film, leading to the need for creative editing techniques. A landmark instance is Alfred Hitchcock’s 1948 film Rope, which aimed to enhance suspense by eliminating cuts. Hitchcock meticulously designed sequences to fit within the time constraints of a single film reel, creating an enduring suspenseful atmosphere that still resonates today.
Historically, one-shots were scarce as the cumbersome nature of film recording made them a daunting task for filmmakers. However, the advent of digital technology in the late 20th and early 21st centuries revolutionized this technique. The ease of handling digital cameras and the elimination of tape constraints allowed more filmmakers to experiment with this style. It remained largely confined to independent projects until more mainstream films, such as Birdman and 1917, brought one-shots to wider audiences.
The growing popularity of one-shots in mainstream media can also be linked to the competitive spirit among creators. When Cary Joji Fukunaga delivered an unforgettable one-shot sequence in “Who Goes There,” the fourth episode of True Detective’s initial season, it raised expectations for the medium, prompting others to strive for similar groundbreaking moments. The success of The Bear’s “Review” further established the technique’s potency, intensifying the emotional stakes of an already high-tension series. Its widespread acclaim has undoubtedly caught the attention of Hollywood, as studios look for ways to replicate that excitement in future projects.
The One-Shot Might Lose Its Power
The film and television industry has a history of overusing popular trends to the point of making them seem outdated. The phenomenon of found-footage horror films showcases this tendency. After the blockbuster success of Paranormal Activity in 2007, numerous imitators flooded the market, leading to audience desensitization and a retreat of found footage to the indie scene. Similarly, Disney’s relentless remaking of animated classics in live-action has raked in profits, yet has also sparked criticism for its lack of originality.
As the one-shot technique continues to gain traction, there’s a risk it may follow a similar trajectory. The current appeal remains strong, bolstered by hits like Adolescence, which effectively utilizes the technique to create an immersive experience. The gripping narrative would likely have resonated, but the one-shot method undeniably intensifies the viewer’s connection to the unfolding drama.
Meanwhile, The Studio cleverly satirizes the one-shot format while engaging in it simultaneously. Episode 2, titled “The Oner,” critiques the method’s perceived pretentiousness even as it demonstrates its effectiveness. This dual approach suggests that while one-shots may risk becoming a punchline in Hollywood, their capacity for creating captivating experiences cannot be denied.
Ultimately, it remains uncertain whether the one-shot will fade like found footage or sustain its allure. The industry’s penchant for replicating successful formulas, combined with filmmakers’ aspirations to innovate and the growing accessibility of technology, suggests that audiences may not tire of continuous takes just yet.
Release Date
March 13, 2025
Network
Netflix
Source
movieweb.com