The trick used by ‘Adolescence’ to achieve single-take scenes: How Netflix’s hit series was filmed
The new miniseries is making waves on the streaming platform, with its use of single-take filming earning critical praise.
Nearly two weeks after its debut on Netflix, 'Adolescence' is still generating buzz. The British miniseries, starring actor Stephen Graham, has captivated fans and stunned viewers across the board. It’s one of the most-watched shows of the moment, and beyond its compelling storyline and script, one standout aspect is its use of continuous single-take scenes. Each of the four episodes is filmed in a single shot from beginning to end.
While this technique isn’t new, many viewers of ‘Adolescence’ have wondered how it’s possible to create an hour of seamless content that looks so spectacular on-screen. Behind-the-scenes footage shows that the series achieves this effect through entirely practical methods.
An ingenious trick
In the second episode of the Netflix series, there’s a moment when the storyline shifts locations to follow Stephen Graham’s character. To transition between settings without breaking the single-take format, ‘Adolescence’ doesn’t rely on any digital tricks. Instead, everything is done manually. The handheld camera is seamlessly attached to a drone, which is controlled by the production team. Once it reaches the new location, the camera is picked up again—all without cutting the shot. This adds a level of authenticity to the miniseries that viewers have praised.
What is ‘Adolescence’ about?
‘Adolescence’ has become a sensation on Netflix. The four-episode miniseries tells the story of a young girl’s murder at a school, with authorities convinced that the culprit is a 13-year-old boy from the same institution. The investigation and emotional turmoil take center stage, and the anguish is especially visible on the face of Stephen Graham, whose performance continues to be undervalued despite his talent.
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