8 Incredible Movie Scenes Shot In A Single Take

2. Goodfellas -€“ The Bar Scene

Warner Bros

The number of times this scene has been poorly imitated is quite staggering. Masterfully directed by Martin Scorsese, Goodfellas (released in 1990) is a massively influential crime film that narrates the rise and fall of Lucchese crime family member Henry Hill and his companions. It was so successful that it scooped up six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director.

But onto the scene in question. What's amazing about this scene is that it's vastly complex while coming across as seamless and natural. It follows two characters as they enter a club, from skipping the queue and entering via a secret entrance to navigating the shadier corners of the location.

The timing required was rather astounding, as the intensely dynamic quality of the scene means nothing is static and everyone is constantly moving, including those not currently on screen. As the camera follows Hill (played by Ray Liotta), relationships are established, power is established and the setting is established, proving this single take to be an essential piece of film-making.

Contributor
Contributor

Commonly found reading, sitting firmly in a seat at the cinema (bottle of water and a Freddo bar, please) or listening to the Mountain Goats.