10 Incredible TV Scenes Shot In A Single Take

A oner is a filmmaking technique where a long scene is shot continuously without the use of cuts. Though films like Snake Eyes, Birdman, and Hard Boiled have become iconic for their prolonged takes, certain TV shows have utilised this tool too.

Oners sound gimmicky at first, but can make scenes feel more natural since they mimic a real-time experience. It's especially effective in dialogue-heavy dramas, where uninterrupted performances magnify the authenticity. This practice suits chaotic series like Daredevil and The Bear, since the tension doesn't get a chance to let up.

Pulling off a scene in a one-take may not always be an artistic choice but a budgetary one, as these types of shots can be cost-effective because they reduce the need for multiple camera setups. Reshoots often take a while, so filming everything in one go also cuts down on time. And even when an extended shot isn't necessary, it's impressive on a technical level since they require tons of planning, precise choreography, exact blocking, and every actor and crew member hitting their marks perfectly. 

Whether this technique was used for a scene or an entire episode, the following ten entries left everybody's jaws on the floor.

The second season of Monsters focuses on Lyle and Erik Menendez, who were arrested for brutally murdering their parents, Jose and Kitty. Even though Jose and Kitty were deeply respected by the community, the Menendez brothers claimed their mother and father harboured a malevolent side, leaving Lyle and Erik with no choice but to execute them.

The fifth episode, The Hurt Man, focuses entirely on Erik speaking to his defence attorney about every detail surrounding the abuse his parents put him through. Though there’s nothing impressive about the shot on a technical level, the way the camera subtly zooms in on Erik over 36 minutes allows the audience to gradually feel like they’re being let into the character’s world, allowing them to understand him more intimately. The camera never deviates from Erik, so we bear witness to every word, gesture, and micro-expression.

After watching the season in its entirety, The Hurt Man alone is worth revisiting. Upon a first viewing, it appears Erik is sincere throughout this interview. But after it comes to light how much of the Menendez's story is true, you'll be incentivised to give this episode another go, now it's apparent how much of Erik's behaviour and dialogue here is a well-crafted performance.