The rise of the one‑take format on television
Full‑length television series and feature films that are shot in a single continuous take are still rare, but the recent Netflix series Adolescence demonstrates that the approach is not just a gimmick. Each of its four hour‑long episodes, filmed in one uninterrupted sequence, shows how the constraints of the format shape the entire production pipeline, from preparation to performance.
Rehearsal reimagined for contemporary screen work
Historically, actors in theatre spend weeks or months developing an entire production as a group. The focus is on repetition, collective interpretation, and live audience response. In contrast, most film and TV projects now rely on minimal rehearsal, especially outside of the first read‑through or a week‑long workshop.
In a one‑take situation the rehearsal must be far more extensive. All actors, camera operators, lighting designers, sound engineers and producers need to be synchronized over the whole length of the piece. A single misstep can wipe out an entire take, leaving the crew with no opportunity for a 24‑hour edit. Consequently, groups spend a lot of time on blocking, adjusting camera placements, and rehearsing dialogue in advance – sometimes for weeks – before a flight‑day of shooting.
Time‑allocation for rehearsals
- Block runs with full crew – 2–3 days per episode.
- Actor‑to‑rehearsal – 1 day of run‑throughs followed by 2 days of fine‑tuning.
- Technical run‑through – 1 day for lighting and sound.
These detailed practices mirror traditional stage methods, but the difference lies in the collaborative emphasis shared across the entire crew rather than only among actors.
Scriptwriting in real time
One of the biggest innovations that a serial like Adolescence brings to the industry is its literal real‑time storytelling. Each hour long episode covers a single hour of narrative time, requiring writers to incorporate every single moment, even those that might be considered mundane.
Where conventional screenwriting allows the narrative to progress regardless of tempo, the real‑time constraint forces the script to match actual interval passage. For example, a character’s journey to a DIY store cannot be shortened; the scenes that occur in the van must match the five‑minute driving window stipulated by the narrative.
Benefits for actors
- Greater exposure to sub‑plot moments that offer richer emotional moments.
- More late‑scene surprises that keep the performance fresh.
- Enhanced responsibility for pacing across the story arc.
Improvisation within a tightly‑structured framework
The real‑time and one‑take demands do not eliminate spontaneity; rather, they create a space where actors can introduce unscripted moments that naturally fit the narrative. A simple example from episode three involves a character’s yawn. The actor portraying the character was tired, triggered the yawn, and the co‑star improvised a dialogue line that followed. The camera was on the same frame, so the audience witnessed an unplanned, yet emotionally resonant, exchange.
This phenomenon, sometimes called tangent energy, is valuable for both performers and director because it generates authenticity that can be difficult to achieve with rehearsed material alone.
Actor‑director collaboration during production
Because every single moment counts, the relationship between director and actors is highly collaborative. The director acts as the architect of pacing while the actors populate it, and both must remain vigilant to on‑set feedback. Strategies include:
- Continuous rehearsal of blocking with the full crew.
- Scheduled check‑ins after each shot completion.
- Real‑time editing in post‑production to capture the single take’s flow.
Implications for aspiring actors and acting students
These industry developments suggest several practical takeaways for those training in performance:
- Develop precise timing skills. Learn to read a pattern of beats and move within them confidently.
- Train in collective rehearsal techniques. One‑take filming rewards the ability to work cohesively with entire teams.
- Embrace real‑time storytelling. Study scripts that map sentences to moments and practice keeping narrative momentum.
- Prepare for the unexpected. Foster improv capabilities to respond seamlessly to on‑set changes.
Practical exercises
In your rehearsal space, try a 20‑minute monologue performed live for a small audience, then replay the stream to spot any timing inconsistencies. Pair this with partner improvisation to simulate the dynamic of a one‑take shoot.
How to prepare for a one‑take project
Whether you are auditioning for a one‑take series, or have been cast in a new experimental format, use these guidelines for success:
- Study the script and outline the event timeline before the first rehearsal day.
- Build a mental cue system for each beat – knowing precisely when to rise, pause or shift focus.
- Participate fully in blocking sessions with the crew.
- Communicate proactively with the director and assistant director during run‑throughs.
- Maintain energy levels; the one‑take method requires physical and mental stamina.
By elevating your readiness in these domains you position yourself to seize opportunities in this growing niche of filmed storytelling.
Concluding thoughts on the future of acting
The one‑take format is reshaping how actors approach craft, combining rigorous rehearsal and precise execution with moments of improvisation that keep performances alive. As more productions experiment with this technique, the demand for performers who can handle such structures will rise. Actors who anticipate and adapt to these expectations will find themselves well‑equipped for a dynamic range of projects, from television dramas to experimental film.
Join Falmouth University’s Acting Program
Falmouth University offers a range of acting courses that emphasize both traditional theatre rehearsal and contemporary screen techniques, including experiences with long‑take projects. If you’re ready to develop the skills that future TV and film productions will require, consider applying today.
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Do you have experience working on a single‑take shoot? Let us know in the comments or reach out via our contact page.
