Cinematography technique · used in 2 films
Sending the camera along a path no person could take, such as down a drain, to turn an idea into a single image. The movement says what the scene will not show.
Examples
Joel Coen, Ethan Coen · 1985
The camera slides along the top of the bar and lifts over a passed-out drunk. The shot shows off what a small crew can do with a camera on a tiny budget. It also tells you these directors plan every frame.
Where to see it: The bar shot: a tracking shot moves along the top of the bar and lifts over a drunk.
Joel Coen, Ethan Coen · 1991
After Barton and Audrey have sex, the camera tracks out of the bedroom, into the bathroom and down the sink drain. The Coens designed the shot as a symbol for the act itself. Cinematographer Roger Deakins joked about not being asked to track down any more plug-holes.
Where to see it: The scene after Barton and Audrey go to bed. The camera glides across the room and into the bathroom sink drain.
Questions
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