The Art of the Long Take

Considered one of cinema's most challenging accomplishments, the unbroken shot—often referred to as 'the oner'—is notorious for testing filmmakers' creativity, precision, and coordination. Any minute error can easily spoil an entire take, making it a daunting task for even the most seasoned directors.

Iconic instances of this technique can be found in the film industry. Who could forget the intense casino sequence in Martin Scorsese's 'GoodFellas'? Similarly, Alfonso Cuarón's gripping action segments in 'Children of Men' and Alejandro González Iñárritu's ambitious use throughout 'Birdman' showcase its potential. Recently, a particular episode of 'The Studio,' cleverly named 'The Oner,' was itself a tribute to the unbroken sequence by using a continuous shot.

A New Standard with Bi Gan

Yet, current discussions among cinephiles bow to the work of Bi Gan, a Chinese filmmaker who has redefined expectations with a strikingly ambitious continuous shot this year. His latest sci-fi endeavor is not just a visual feast but an intricate journey through the remnants of 20th-century China. The film's climactic 30-minute tracking shot captures the transition from night to morning, illustrating a riveting narrative that traverses dock-side brawls, rainy streets, lively karaoke settings, and ultimately returns to a port scene marked by an unexpected romantic twist.

Bi Gan's previous projects have also explored the boundaries of continuous filming. His debut ended with an incredible 41-minute shot navigating a rustic mountain town, followed by an ethereal 59-minute unbroken sequence in his second film, captured in 3D.

Behind the Technical Marvel

In an interview conducted through an interpreter, Bi Gan—merely 36 years old—explained his philosophy and approach to the long take. He emphasized how this method connects viewers with the film's passage of time, discouraging the fragmented storytelling typical of multiple cuts. The audience is immersed in real-time experiences, creating a fluid narrative that conveys time's unbroken essence.

Reflecting on his filmmaking past, Bi noted the chronological complexity incorporated in his first feature, mixing past, present, and future events within a continuous shot. As he advanced, his focus shifted toward capturing memories and their inherent fragmentation. The long take assumes a new dimension by providing a cohesive representation of human recollection.

Crafting a Cinematic Masterpiece

The development of the recent film began with adaptation from one of Bi’s own novels. Initially uncertain of the best filmic approach, inspiration struck during a discussion with his director of photography and production designer. A particular painting by Mark Rothko sparked the concept of a seamless long take, its blending of colors symbolizing the fluidity and continuity he wished to invoke.

Bi's dedication to precision is clear in his meticulous planning and collaboration across various departments. The process involved numerous technical rehearsals and constant modifications to achieve the perfect balance. Selecting ideal locations was pivotal; settings like railroads, docks, and karaoke bars provided the narrative framework.

Teamwork and Challenges

With intense cooperation among scriptwriters, production designers, and a host of extras, Bi insists on the importance of cohesion in bringing the film’s vision to life. The preparation spanned a month, with daytime dedicated to skill-building activities like boat operation and karaoke for the lead actors. Nighttime was reserved for full rehearsals.

Despite the complexity, Bi managed to capture the entire take uninterrupted. He believes this kind of authenticity enhances the viewing experience and insists that this approach will continue to be his signature contribution to the filmic narrative.