The Art of the Long Take: Exploring Cinematic Scenes that Capture Immersive Moments

Introduction

The long take is a cinematic technique that has captured the attention of filmmakers across genres, and has been used to great effect in various films and TV shows. This technique not only heightens the realism of the scenes but also creates a more immersive experience for the audience. From Paths of Glory to Victoria, and from 2001: A Space Odyssey to True Detective, this article explores some of the most memorable long take scenes in cinema history.

Historical Significance: Long Takes by Kubrick

Stanley Kubrick's contributions to the long take technique are legendary. His films, especially Paths of Glory (1957) and 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968), are known for their masterful use of the long take. Paths of Glory was a groundbreaking feature that showcased Kubrick's ability to capture intense, tense scenes without breaking the camera motion. The same can be said for 2001: A Space Odyssey, which utilized the long take to create ethereal and cosmic scenes that felt almost otherworldly. Kubrick's The Shining (1980) also features a collection of long takes that add to its haunting and surreal atmosphere.

Modern Techniques: One-Take Filmography

While long takes are a common technique, the one-take film is a more recent and rare form. Notable examples include the Russian documentary film Russian Ark (2002) and the live-action film Matilda (1996), which were performed in a single shot without any post-production editing. However, it's worth noting that the question aligns more with individual scenes within a single take. In the last decade, films like Barry Lyndon (1975), Full Metal Jacket (1987), and Eyes Wide Shut (1999) all feature extended takes that are seamless and captivating.

True Detective: A Masterclass in Long Takes

One of the most innovative uses of the long take is found in Season 1 of the TV series True Detective. In a particularly harrowing scene, Matthew McConaughey's character Rustin Cohle is shown in flashback going undercover on a gang raid, and the entire sequence is a single, unbroken take. This scene required significant choreography and timing but the result is strikingly immersive. The scene not only captures the suspense of the raid but also the psychological impact of the undercover work, making it a standout example of the long take technique.

Another example is the Canadian police procedural series 19–2, which aired in 2006. During an episode that revolves around a school shooting, much of the scene is shot as a single, long take. This technique is particularly effective as it immerses the audience in the moment-to-moment fear and tension. The camera follows the actions and movements of both the gunman and the police, highlighting the intensity of the situation and the fear felt by everyone involved. This unbroken sequence allows the audience to feel as if they are right there in the school, creating a profound sense of immediacy and engagement.

Conclusion: A Technique for Realism and Immersion

The long take is a powerful tool in the filmmaker's arsenal, capable of enhancing realism and creating an immersive experience. From the classics of Stanley Kubrick to the modern innovations seen in True Detective and 19–2, this technique continues to captivate and inspire. As filmmakers continue to push the boundaries of storytelling, the long take remains a technique that sets the bar for high-quality and impactful cinema.