24 Masterstrokes: The Best Long Takes in Movie History

1. The Passenger 2005，IMDB Rating: 6.1，Douban Rating: 5.3，ID: tt0479259
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The Passenger, directed by Michelangelo Antonioni, is a film that stands out for its long takes, especially the one near the end. This seven-minute take is not just a show of technical prowess, but it also enhances the narrative, pulling us into the protagonist’s state of mind.
2. GoodFellas 1990，IMDB Rating: 8.7，Douban Rating: 8.4，ID: tt0099685
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GoodFellas is a film directed by Martin Scorsese that provides an inside look at Mafia life in New York City from 1955 to 1980. The film is known for its realistic and brutal depiction of the mafia, its use of music and narration, and its influence on other filmmakers. One of the most notable aspects of GoodFellas is its use of long takes, particularly the famous Copacabana nightclub scene.
3. 辣手神探 1992，IMDB Rating: 7.8，Douban Rating: 7.9，ID: tt0104684
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The movie ‘Hard Boiled’ directed by John Woo and starring Chow Yun-fat and Tony Leung Chiu-wai, is a classic Hong Kong action film known for its intense action sequences. One of the most notable scenes is the hospital shootout, which is filmed in a single, unbroken shot. This long take is a technical marvel that heightens the tension and immerses the audience in the action. As a graphic designer who appreciates artistry and creativity, I find this long take to be a remarkable feat of cinematography that enhances the storytelling by providing a continuous, unbroken view of the events unfolding in the scene.
4. The Player 1992，IMDB Rating: 7.5，Douban Rating: 7.7，ID: tt0105151
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The Player, directed by Robert Altman, is a satirical black comedy that provides a biting yet hilarious critique of Hollywood’s inner workings. The film opens with a long continuous shot, a technical achievement that sets the tone for the rest of the movie. This opening scene is not just a showcase of Altman’s directorial prowess, but also a metaphor for the state of Hollywood in the early 1990s.
5. Boogie Nights 1997，IMDB Rating: 7.9，Douban Rating: 7.5，ID: tt0118749
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Boogie Nights, a film from 1997, is a cinematic masterpiece that brilliantly combines strong characters, bold themes, and subtle storytelling. Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and starring Mark Wahlberg, the film is a groundbreaking achievement for both. The film’s long take is particularly noteworthy, listed as one of the best in film history.
6. Children of Men 2006，IMDB Rating: 7.9，Douban Rating: 7.6，ID: tt0206634
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Children of Men, directed by Alfonso Cuarón, is a dystopian thriller set in 2027, where humanity faces extinction due to infertility. The film is lauded for its unrelenting bleakness and realistic depiction of a future world. One of the most striking aspects of the film is its use of long takes, particularly the car scene, which is often cited as one of the best in movie history.
7. 威龍猛探 1985，IMDB Rating: 5.8，Douban Rating: 6.2，ID: tt0089847
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As a fan of action, thriller, and sci-fi genres, I found ‘威龍猛探’ (The Protector) to be a captivating blend of crime and action. The movie, directed by James Glickenhaus and starring the charismatic Jackie Chan, takes us on a thrilling journey from New York City to Hong Kong. The plot, revolving around a kidnapping case, is engaging and keeps you on the edge of your seat.
8. Atonement 2007，IMDB Rating: 7.8，Douban Rating: 8.4，ID: tt0783233
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Atonement, a film set between the wars in an English country house, is a dream of elegance that descends into an abyss of tragedy and loss. The film’s beach sequence at Dunkirk, a single unbroken shot, is a testament to the director’s skill, making it one of the best long takes in film history.
9. Hunger 2008，IMDB Rating: 7.6，Douban Rating: 8.0，ID: tt0986233
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As a lover of classic and nostalgic cinema, I found ‘Hunger’ to be a deeply moving and thought-provoking film. Its unflinching portrayal of the 1981 hunger strike led by Bobby Sands, played brilliantly by Michael Fassbender, offers a stark look at a tumultuous period in Irish and British history.
10. El secreto de sus ojos 2009，IMDB Rating: 8.2，Douban Rating: 8.3，ID: tt1305806
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El secreto de sus ojos, a 2009 Argentinian film, is a captivating blend of crime and drama that leaves a lasting impression. Directed by Juan José Campanella, the film is lauded for its engrossing plot and mesmerizing performances. While it may not be renowned for its long takes, the film’s intricate storyline and assured direction make it a memorable cinematic experience. As a movie lover who enjoys watching films with my family, I found the film to be both engaging and thought-provoking. Its complex narrative and compelling performances make it a film worth watching.
11. True Detective Season 3 2019，IMDB Rating: 8.7，Douban Rating: 8.2，ID: tt6710716
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True Detective Season 3, a series that delves deep into the fallibility of memory, is a captivating watch, largely due to Mahershala Ali’s mesmerizing performance. The series, however, does not shy away from its darker, more grim aspects, which can be both a strength and a weakness. As for its contribution to the best long takes in movie history, it may not have made the list, but its narrative style and execution certainly make it a noteworthy contender. The series, with its unique storytelling and compelling performances, offers an engaging and thought-provoking viewing experience.
12. Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) 2014，IMDB Rating: 7.7，Douban Rating: 8.0，ID: tt2562232
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Birdman, directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, is a cinematic masterpiece that brilliantly blends comedy and drama. The film’s technical prowess is awe-inspiring, particularly its use of long, unbroken takes that immerse the audience in the story. These long takes, a highlight of the film, serve to draw us deeper into the narrative, revealing new facets of the characters and the plot. The film’s protagonist, Riggan Thompson, portrayed by Michael Keaton, delivers a performance that is both captivating and emotionally resonant.
13. The Revenant 2015，IMDB Rating: 8.0，Douban Rating: 7.9，ID: tt1663202
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The Revenant, directed by Alejandro Gonzalez Iñárritu and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, is a film that stands out for its immersive and visually stunning scenes. One scene that particularly stands out is the brutal bear attack, which is a heart-racing and terrifying spectacle. The film effectively transports viewers to another time and place, making us feel as though we are experiencing the harsh conditions alongside the characters.
14. La La Land 2016，IMDB Rating: 8.0，Douban Rating: 8.4，ID: tt3783958
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La La Land, directed by Damien Chazelle, is a musical spectacle that captures the heart and soul of Hollywood. The film’s use of long takes, particularly in its dance sequences, is a testament to the power of this cinematic technique. The choreography is not just about the dance moves, but about the emotions conveyed through them. The long takes in La La Land serve to draw the audience into the story, making us feel as if we are part of the narrative rather than mere spectators. This film is a shining example of how long takes can enhance the storytelling in cinema, making it a standout in the history of long takes in film.
15. Creed 2015，IMDB Rating: 7.6，Douban Rating: 7.6，ID: tt3076658
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Creed, directed by Ryan Coogler, is a film that not only revives the Rocky franchise but also takes it in a new direction. The film tells the story of Adonis Johnson, the son of the late boxing legend Apollo Creed, who seeks to make his own name in the sport. The film is praised for its realism and character-driven narrative.
16. Atomic Blonde 2017，IMDB Rating: 6.7，Douban Rating: 7.2，ID: tt2406566
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Atomic Blonde is a thrilling ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The film’s stylish action sequences are a visual treat, and Charlize Theron’s performance as Lorraine Broughton is nothing short of commanding. Her take-no-bull body language and calculating stare give her character an intelligence that proves she’s the right person for the job. The film’s narrative may not be as hard-hitting as its protagonist, but it gets enough mileage out of its action sequences and ever-magnetic star to make up for it.
17. Dunkirk 2017，IMDB Rating: 7.9，Douban Rating: 8.4，ID: tt5013056
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As a retired engineer with a keen interest in history and documentary films, I found ‘Dunkirk 2017’ to be a captivating portrayal of a pivotal moment in World War II. The film’s emotionally satisfying spectacle, coupled with Christopher Nolan’s masterful direction, offers an immersive experience that is both educational and engaging. The ensemble cast brings the fact-based story to life, adding a layer of authenticity that enhances the viewing experience.
18. Snake Eyes 1998，IMDB Rating: 6.0，Douban Rating: 6.9，ID: tt0120832
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Snake Eyes, a 1998 film directed by Brian De Palma, is a rollercoaster ride of suspense and intrigue. The film’s opening sequence, a seemingly endless Steadicam shot, is a masterclass in filmmaking. It’s a thrilling spectacle that sets the tone for the rest of the film. However, despite its impressive technical achievements, the film falls short in its narrative, with a plot that feels underdeveloped and characters that lack depth. Nevertheless, for those who appreciate the art of cinematography, Snake Eyes offers a feast for the eyes that is hard to forget.
19. Русский ковчег 2002，IMDB Rating: 7.4，Douban Rating: 7.6，ID: tt0318034
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Russian Ark is a cinematic masterpiece that stands out not only in Russian cinema but also in the global film industry. The film’s unique selling point, an 87-minute single take, is a breathtaking achievement that immerses the viewer in a journey through time and space. The unnamed narrator, presumably a ghost, guides us through the Winter Palace, meeting various real and fictional people from different periods of the city’s 300-year history. This technique creates a sense of continuity and fluidity, making the viewer feel like a silent observer of the unfolding events.
20. 올드보이 2003，IMDB Rating: 8.4，Douban Rating: 8.2，ID: tt0364569
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Oldboy, a 2003 South Korean action-thriller, is a cinematic masterpiece that beautifully intertwines a compelling narrative with stunning visuals. The film’s unique storytelling approach, combined with its intense action sequences, particularly the single shot corridor fight scene, makes it a standout in the realm of long takes in movie history.
21. 海上花 1998，IMDB Rating: 7.4，Douban Rating: 8.2，ID: tt0156587
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海上花 (Flowers of Shanghai) is a 1998 Taiwanese drama film directed by Hou Hsiao-hsien. The film is set in the elegant brothels of Shanghai, called ‘Flower Houses’, in 1884. It explores the relationships between the wealthy patrons and the prostitutes. The film consists of 38 long shots, making it a significant contribution to the history of long takes in movies.
22. Cuba 1979，IMDB Rating: 5.6，Douban Rating: ，ID: tt0079013
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Cuba (1979) is a film that beautifully captures the tension and turmoil of pre-revolution Cuba. Directed by Richard Lester, the film stars Sean Connery as a British mercenary training General Batista’s army against Castro’s guerrillas. The film’s plot is engaging, but it’s the long take technique that truly stands out. This technique, often used to create suspense and establish setting, is employed masterfully in Cuba, drawing viewers deeper into the story.
23. La ronde 1950，IMDB Rating: 7.6，Douban Rating: 7.9，ID: tt0042906
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La Ronde, a French film from 1950, is a captivating exploration of interconnected romantic entanglements. Directed by Max Ophuls, the film is a testament to the power of long takes in cinema. The film’s elegant style and meticulous attention to period detail create a visually stunning and emotionally engaging experience.
24. Mirror Mirror 2012，IMDB Rating: 5.6，Douban Rating: 6.1，ID: tt1667353
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As a movie lover who appreciates adventurous and creative films, I found ‘Mirror Mirror 2012’ to be a visual treat. The film, directed by Tarsem Singh, is a feast for the eyes with its sumptuous sets and costumes. Julia Roberts as the Evil Queen and Lily Collins as Snow White deliver solid performances, bringing a fresh twist to the classic tale of Snow White. However, the film deviates from the traditional narrative, offering a different perspective on the roles of the seven dwarves. While the film is visually stunning, it lacks depth in its storyline, making it more of a spectacle than a compelling narrative.