Imagine watching a movie where time unfolds in real-time, without any cuts or edits—just pure, uninterrupted storytelling. From the intense scenes in 1917 to the intimate moments in Before Sunset, these experimental films immerse you directly into the story as it happens. In this list, we've compiled 10 incredible movies that push the boundaries of filmmaking by capturing life as it unfolds. Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
10 Movies Shot in Real-Time Without Any Editing
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1. Victoria (2015)
This tension-filled film, shot entirely in one take, follows a night that begins in a nightclub in Berlin and turns into a criminal event. The camera tracks the characters for a continuous 138 minutes.
2. Russian Ark (2002)
Known as one of the longest single-take films in the world, this movie takes us on a historical journey through the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg. The 90-minute film was shot in a single, uninterrupted take.
3. Timecode (2000)
This film splits the screen into four sections, telling four different stories in real-time. Each story is shot in a continuous single take, allowing viewers to experience events from multiple perspectives.
4. Cléo from 5 to 7 (1962)
One of the key examples of the French New Wave, this film follows a young singer during the two-hour period from 5 to 7 pm in real-time.
5. Before Sunset (2004)
The second film in Richard Linklater's famous 'Before' series, known for its realistic dialogues, this one captures an afternoon in Paris. Almost the entire film consists of conversations between the main characters as they walk.
6. Locke (2013)
Starring Tom Hardy, this film is shot entirely in one location (inside a car) and in real-time. The protagonist makes life-changing decisions over the phone.
7. 1917 (2019)
Set during World War I, this film appears to be shot in one continuous take due to the use of long tracking shots. The audience follows two soldiers on their journey to deliver a life-or-death message.
8. Birdman (2014)
This dark comedy/drama is edited to appear as though it was filmed in one continuous shot. It tells the story of actors preparing for a theater production backstage.
9. Son of Saul (2015)
Set in the Auschwitz concentration camp, this film uses a unique camera technique where the camera never leaves the protagonist’s back, immersing the viewer in the harrowing reality of war. Events unfold from the character's point of view.
10. High Life (2018)
A sci-fi film set in space that, unlike traditional space films, alters the perception of time, offering an experience that makes you live in the moment. The film, starring Robert Pattinson, depicts the existential struggles of its characters almost in a documentary style.