What do you know about single-shot films?

One of the latest award-winning movies titled ‘1917’ has been much-admired due to the film’s single-shot style.

Then, what is this impressive technique and you may wonder if Iranian cinema has ever used one-shot style.

The camera seems to go on even between scenes when you watch ‘1917’ which focuses on a day in the lives of two soldiers in war. Such technique make a feature length film goes on in one long take without any camera break.

The technique adds a sense of heightened emotion and dramatic pace. While movies in one-shot style are not commonly shot without stopping the camera, ‘1917’, ‘Birdman’ and ‘Silent House’ give the appearance of the single-shot technique in filming.  

Iran movies have already adopt this technique as well. Based on true events, 'Fish and Cat' is a case in point which follows a group of students travelling to participate in a kite-flying event. The impressive film is directed by Shahram Mokri as his highly original second feature, filmed in one long, bravura shot.

To achieve the smooth planning of his single shot, Mokri rehearsed with actors for one month.

To adhere to the single shot style, new characters enter and exit the frame in his film, and the camera may or may not choose to follow them. 

AG/AG