FAQ plan-sequences.com

Everything you've always wanted to know about the site, the sequence shot, and how it all works. If your question isn't answered here, write to me via the Contact page.

The sequence shot

What is a sequence shot?

A long take is a scene filmed in a single, continuous shot, without any cuts in the editing. The camera keeps rolling, following the characters, moving through the sets, and never stopping. When it's done well, you forget there's a camera. You're completely immersed in the scene. That's what makes this format so powerful.

What is the difference between a sequence shot and a long shot?

A long take is simply a shot that lasts a long time; the camera might remain fixed on a face for three minutes. A sequence shot, on the other hand, is a long shot that moves, that follows the action, that covers an entire narrative sequence. It's the combination of duration and movement that creates the immersive effect.

Why do some long takes contain hidden cuts?

Because sometimes the technical constraints are too great to do everything in a single, continuous shot. Directors then use "invisible cuts"—a passage behind a wall, a quick camera movement, a fade to black—to assemble several takes while maintaining the illusion of continuity. Iñárritu's Birdman and Sam Mendes' 1917 are built entirely on this principle. They are "fake" long takes, but the effect on the viewer remains the same: you never lose interest.

The site

What is plan-sequences.com?

An online film library dedicated to the long take. Each listed scene is accompanied by an analysis sheet: film context, shooting technique, and what to look for upon rewatching. The goal: to inspire you to revisit these scenes with fresh eyes.

Who is behind this project?

Me — Frédéric, a film enthusiast. This isn't an institutional or academic project. It's a website created by a film lover for other film lovers. I launched plan-sequences.com because no French-language resource systematically cataloged and analyzed sequence shots.

Who is the site aimed at?

To all those fascinated by filmmaking. Curious cinephiles who want to understand why a scene resonated with them. Film students looking for concrete examples. Aspiring videographers and directors who want to learn the techniques. You don't need any technical knowledge to enjoy the site, just a love of cinema.

How do I navigate the site?

You can explore the sequence shots by film or by genre. Each entry includes an embedded video, a written analysis, and visual cues to guide your viewing. Use the search function if you're looking for a specific film.

How often is the site updated?

New analyses are published every week. The blog is also regularly updated with thematic articles: technical guides, comparisons, lists of essential sequence shots.

Videos and copyright

Are the videos hosted on the site?

No. All videos come from YouTube or Vimeo and are embedded via their official players. The site does not store any video files.

Do the extracts respect copyright?

Yes. Integration is done via the platforms' official tools (YouTube/Vimeo embed), which complies with their terms of service. The written analyses are protected under the right to quote for educational and critical purposes.

Can I use your analyses for a course or educational project?

Yes, provided that plan-sequences.com is cited as the source and that it is not used for commercial purposes. The texts and analyses remain protected by copyright.

Contribute

Can I suggest a sequence shot?

Yes. Contact me via the Contact page with a video link and a short description of the scene. If the sequence shot is suitable for the site, I'll add it with an analysis sheet.

How can I support the project?

The easiest way: share the site with your friends. Tell a film-loving friend, share a review on your social networks. And if you want to go further, subscribing remains the best way to support the project.

Technical problems

I'm having trouble displaying or playing videos. What should I do?

First, check your connection and disable your ad blocker, as it may interfere with the embedded video players. If the problem persists, contact me via the Contact page and describe the issue.

Contact

How can I contact you?

Via the form available on the Contact page. I usually reply within 48 hours.

Where can I follow the latest news from the site?

Subscribe to the newsletter to receive new analyses and blog articles directly in your inbox.

👉 Explore the sequence shots on plan-sequences.com and subscribe so you don't miss anything.