- Television is embracing the art of the long take to create immersive storytelling, previously a hallmark of cinema.
- Philip Barantini’s Adolescencia on Netflix features a one-hour episode without a single cut, showcasing intricate choreography and stunning execution.
- Past landmark moments like True Detective’s six-minute sequence marked the potential of continuous shots in TV storytelling.
- Recent shows like The Bear and Succession have employed long takes to heighten tension and drama.
- Producing continuous takes demands extensive coordination and resources, increasing production complexity and costs.
- Apple TV+’s The Studio, co-created by Seth Rogen, incorporates the single-take format to comedic effect.
- Successfully using long takes requires balance; the technique should enhance rather than overshadow storylines.
- The future use of long takes in television is intriguing, promising continued innovation and artistic exploration.
Television is experiencing a captivating revolution. The art of the long take, or “plano secuencia,” once the domain of film, is redefining how stories are told on the small screen. Directors like Philip Barantini have expertly wielded this technique to create episodes of immense tension and realism, presenting a continuous, uninterrupted sequence that captivates audiences with every passing second.
Adolescencia, a TV series on Netflix, showcases a mesmerizing example of this art form. Directed by Barantini, the first episode unfolds without a single cut for an entire hour, moving fluidly between locations and involving a diverse cast of hundreds. The meticulous choreography and planning involved can leave viewers breathless, as each actor and crew member seamlessly executes their role with precision.
This single-take style isn’t an entirely novel concept. The breathtaking six-minute sequence from True Detective’s first season aired almost a decade ago, where Matthew McConaughey’s character navigated a complex, dangerous world in one continuous shot. It left an indelible mark as a turning point in television history, proving that the small screen could handle such ambitious storytelling techniques.
The ripple effects continue in recent offerings. The Bear managed to captivate with a frantic 17-minute slice of life in a bustling kitchen, while Succession used the continuous take to heighten the drama of its final season. And now, Adolescencia sets a new standard for this method, immersing viewers in its richly woven narrative tapestry.
Yet, this technique is not without its challenges. Producing an uninterrupted sequence demands extraordinary levels of coordination, rehearsal, and logistical prowess, elements that significantly drive up production costs. It requires not only a creative vision but also a technical one, where every movement is calculated and every moment calibrated for maximum impact.
Amid the excitement surrounding Adolescencia, Apple TV+ introduces The Studio, a comedy series that also embraces the single-take format. Seth Rogen, co-creator and star, brings viewers into the chaotic world of cinematic production, where the characters’ ambitions clash in a whirlwind of creative motion. Rogen’s episode “The Oner” even playfully explores the very essence of the long take, blurring the lines between reality and narrative in a nod to the technique’s cinematic roots.
While the trend of the single take gains traction, not every series can harness its power effectively. Each instance must serve the story, enhancing rather than overtaking it. As audiences become more familiar with this style, its power to wow may diminish unless it also enriches the storytelling experience—just as Adolescencia and The Studio have masterfully achieved.
As we look ahead, the question remains: will the long take become yet another tool in the ever-evolving landscape of television, or will it be a fleeting moment of artistic daring? Whatever the answer, its current use highlights an ongoing fascination with crafting immersive, innovative narratives that push the boundaries of television’s artistic potential.
The Rising Art of the Long Take in TV: What’s Next for Storytelling?
The art of the long take, or “plano secuencia,” is witnessing a renaissance on television, capturing audiences with its seamless storytelling. While the original article highlighted the role directors like Philip Barantini play in revolutionizing this technique, there are several more layers to explore in this evolving trend.
How-To Steps & Life Hacks:
1. Creating a Long Take:
– Storyboard and Script: Break down each segment meticulously to outline every movement and dialogue delivery.
– Rehearsals: Conduct numerous rehearsals to ensure precise timing and coordination among actors and crew.
– Technical Setup: Use stabilizers or Steadicams to maintain steady camera work. Ensure lighting is suitable for continuous shooting.
– Backup Plans: Have contingency plans to address technical failures or mistakes during shooting.
2. Real-World Use Cases:
– Long takes can effectively capture the intensity in fast-paced environments like busy kitchens or chaotic offices, as showcased in series like The Bear and Seth Rogen’s The Studio.
Market Forecasts & Industry Trends:
1. Predicted Growth:
The continued success of long-take episodes is likely to encourage more filmmakers to experiment with this style. According to industry experts, we might see a surge in independent productions leveraging this technique due to its potential for powerful storytelling without relying heavily on visual effects.
2. Emerging Platforms:
Streaming services such as Netflix and Apple TV+ are at the forefront of this trend, providing platforms for experimental and ambitious storytelling that traditional networks may hesitate to undertake. The popularity and positive reception of shows like Adolescencia and The Studio incentivize other platforms to adopt similar innovation.
Controversies & Limitations:
1. Production Challenges:
– Creating a long take is resource-intensive, often requiring expanded budgets for rehearsals and logistics.
– Viewer experience can vary; if not executed well, it might detract from the narrative rather than enhance it.
2. Audience Acceptance:
As audiences grow used to long takes, there’s a potential for diminishing returns in terms of “wow” factor. Future uses must focus on enriching the story to retain viewer interest.
Reviews & Comparisons:
1. Current Leaders:
– Adolescencia: Celebrated for its ambitious hour-long take, praised for engaging storytelling.
– The Bear and Succession: Known for integrating long takes that add to the plot’s intensity.
Insights & Predictions:
– Long Take Evolution:
As technology evolves, we can anticipate advancements in filming equipment and techniques that may enable more intricate and engaging long takes. Virtual reality and augmented reality present new frontiers for this storytelling style.
Actionable Recommendations:
– For filmmakers considering the long take, it’s essential to ensure that the technique serves the story. Crafting scenes where the continuous movement enhances emotional impact is key.
– Audiences should seek content that uses long takes to deepen the narrative, prioritizing quality storytelling over mere spectacle.
For more on immersive storytelling and innovative television, explore more at Netflix and Apple TV+.
