The Art of the Long Take – When and How to Use It Effectively

As a director with over two decades of experience, I’ve always been fascinated by the power of the long take. This uninterrupted shot, when executed properly, can create an immersive experience that draws viewers deeper into the story and heightens emotional impact.

What is a Long Take?

A long take, or a “continuous shot,” is an uninterrupted shot that lasts significantly longer than the average shot length of 2.5 to 4 seconds. These shots can range from 30 seconds to several minutes, with some famous examples lasting over 10 minutes.

When to Use Long Takes

Long takes serve multiple strategic purposes in filmmaking. They can masterfully build tension and suspense while establishing clear spatial relationships within scenes. Directors often employ them to showcase intricate choreography and powerful performances, as well as to deeply immerse viewers in a character’s point of view. When used appropriately, long takes can also demonstrate technical virtuosity that enhances the overall storytelling experience.

Technical Considerations

Planning a successful long take requires meticulous preparation. Here are the key elements to consider:

1. Rehearsal Time: Allow extensive rehearsal time for the cast and crew to perfect their timing and movements.
2. Equipment Selection: Choose the right camera stabilisation system – Steadicam, dolly, or handheld – based on the shot’s requirements.
3. Lighting Design: Plan lighting that works from multiple angles and accommodates camera movement.
4. Blocking: Choreograph actor movements precisely to maintain proper framing throughout the shot.

Notable Examples

Some masterful examples of long takes include:

• The opening sequence of “Touch of Evil” (1958)
• The Copacabana scene in “Goodfellas” (1990)
• The battle sequence in “Children of Men” (2006)
• The “1917” (2019) film, designed to appear as one continuous shot

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

While long takes can be powerful, they’re not always the best choice. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

There are several key mistakes to avoid when planning long takes. Directors should be cautious about implementing this technique purely for technical showmanship rather than narrative purposes. The pursuit of a perfect long take shouldn’t compromise the quality of performances, nor should it lead to actor fatigue from excessive retakes. Most importantly, the technical execution of the shot should enhance rather than overshadow the story being told.

Conclusion

The long take remains one of cinema’s most powerful tools when used thoughtfully. As with any technique, its effectiveness lies not in its mere execution, but in how it serves the story and enhances the viewer’s experience.

Remember: technical prowess should always take a backseat to storytelling. When you find that perfect moment where a long take truly elevates your narrative, that’s when the magic happens.

Written by Mark Murphy Director