One-Shot Storytelling in ‘Adolescence’

“Adolescence” is a four-part limited series on Netflix that features a unique one-shot filming technique to follow the intense story of 13-year-old Jamie Miller, who is suspected of murdering a classmate. The narrative unfolds in real time, capturing the police’s early morning raid, Jamie’s interrogation, and the unfolding mystery around the classmate’s fate. Cinematographer Matthew Lewis and director Philip Barantini collaborated closely to execute this continuous shot style, focusing on careful planning of locations and camera movements to maintain tension and immersion in the story.

Throughout the preparation, they worked with the writer to ensure the script suited the one-shot format, incorporating necessary adjustments during rehearsals. The shooting process involved a complex choreography, particularly for scenes in crowded environments like schools, where they coordinated movements with students and used advanced equipment for seamless signal transmission.

The episodes feature emotionally charged moments, such as an intense interrogation scene that required innovative camera rigging to maintain a dynamic feel while adhering to a fixed setting. The challenges of filming included technical mishaps, like power failures and focus issues, but the crew’s adaptability allowed them to capture powerful performances. VFX was minimal, used only for specific scenes, affirming the commitment to a genuine one-shot experience. Overall, the series showcases a pioneering approach to storytelling and cinematography, emphasizing collaboration and creative problem-solving in the filmmaking process.

Source: VARIETY