The audiovisual language is permeated by various techniques, among which cutting is one of the most fundamental. It consists of the passage from one plane or point of view to another, playing a crucial role in narrative construction.
However, there is a category of films that defy this norm, being composed entirely without visible cuts. Some use innovative techniques, such as camera tricks, visual effects or are produced continuously, providing a unique cinematic experience.
Below, we present the 10 best uncut films. Get ready for a seamless cinematic journey!
Uncut films
Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014)
Under the direction of Alejandro González Iñárritu, “Birdman” uses the long shot technique, with tricks to mask the cuts, thus creating the illusion of continuity.
The plot follows the tumultuous journey of actor Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton), who rose to fame playing a famous superhero in the film. When he refused to participate in the film’s sequel, his career went into decline. Seeking redemption, Riggan decides to direct a play, but during the production he is tormented by a character from his past.
Devil’s Party (1948)
Film by Alfred Hitchcock, the master of suspense in cinema. “Devil’s Feast” is a psychological thriller shot as if it were one continuous take. To overcome the limitations of the time, when it was possible to film only 10 minutes per roll, devices were used to hide the cuts and allow the exchange of rolls.
The plot revolves around a murder committed by two students who believe they are capable of carrying out the perfect crime. To demonstrate their skill, they organize a party in their apartment, using a trunk as decoration, where they hide the victim’s body.
Victory (2015)
Under the direction of Sebastian Schipper, “Victoria” stands out for being shot in real time, without visible cuts.
The plot takes place one night when Victoria meets four young people and together they experience a night of drinking. However, the situation takes an unexpected turn when the group is forced to pay off an old debt owed to one of the members. Faced with this dilemma, Victoria decides to help her by embarking on a risky bank robbery.
Russian Ark (2002)
Under the direction of Aleksandr Sokurov, “Russian Ark” is a magnificent work that takes place entirely at the Hermitage Museum, located in St. Petersburg.
The film features a single 96-minute sequence, condensing 300 years of Russian history. With an impressive cast of over 2,000 actors, the production spans 33 rooms of the museum, offering an immersive experience. An unmissable film for anyone interested in Russian history.
Time Code (2000)
Mike Figgis directs “Timecode” and innovates by dividing the screen into four parts, each representing a unique, sequential perspective. The narrative advances simultaneously in real time.
The story takes place when a production company begins auditions to choose the cast of its next production, intertwining the trajectories of an aspiring actress, Rose (Selma Hayek), the director Alex (Stellan Skarsgård) and his wife Emma (Saffron Burrows). .
1917 (2019)
Directed by Sam Mendes, “1917” is a film in which we follow a dangerous mission in the middle of the First World War. Here the director uses tricks to create the feeling that all the action takes place in a single sequential shot.
The plot revolves around two British soldiers who must cross enemy territory to deliver an important message to another fleet of their army.
Two Minutes Beyond Infinity (2020)
A Japanese film that combines a time travel story with a long shot sequence.
The plot revolves around Kato, a shop owner who lives under his shop. One day, upon entering the house, he sees his own image on television, warning him that it is himself, but two minutes in the future. Extremely confused, Kato needs to find out what is happening.
The Chef (2021)
Film directed by Filippo Barantini which tells the story of the most eventful night in the history of a restaurant, where everything goes wrong. And to increase the feeling of tension and stress, we follow the events in real time and sequentially, where we see all the events up close.
Originally, the film was supposed to have eight takes, but the COVID-19 pandemic interfered with the production schedule. As a result, the team had to make a creative change, opting for a unique sequence plan to circumvent the restrictions imposed by the global health situation.
Utøya: July 22 (2018)
This film portrays one of the saddest days in recent Norwegian history, when 77 people were victims of a terrorist attack on the island of Utøya. Lasting 72 minutes, equivalent to the total time of the attack, the narrative takes place in a single sequence shot, offering an intense immersion in the events.
The story follows young Kaja, who, about ten minutes before the first attack on Utøya, is playing with her younger sister Emilie at a campsite. Amid the panic, they separate and now Kaja must find Emilie in a forest, while tragic events unfold around her.
Blind Spot (2018)
The Norwegian film follows a mother who discovers her teenage daughter’s mental illness. The single shot of the film captures the viewer, showing all the conflicts in an emotional way during a traumatic night for the family.
The film reflects on the difficulties of dealing with difficult-to-discover illnesses and the drama of a mother who discovers the terrible problems her daughter is going through.
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Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
