Victoria

Sat down with Dad to watch Victoria, the talk of German film due to it's 'one take' filming philosophy, so everything that happens, occurs without the camera cutting at any point. It's technically very impressive as a result, Birdman also used this style (although not quite as hardcore) to good effect and as a technique, it really does keep you engaged. That said however, I discussed this with Dad post-film, I felt that without the 'one take-ness' of the film, it is otherwise unremarkable as the story is simplistic and the characters are fleshed out to the absolute minimum level where we can say that we care about them. I'm almost in two minds about it. On one hand, it is a huge technical achievement, and the filming style benefits the journey greatly as the audience are in for just as much as a ride as our protagonist - we see every moment in almost real time and I applaud the simplicity of the premise. That said, the film probably wouldn't exist without the restriction imposed upon filming because the story is ultimately only exciting for a first time viewing. Without the restriction they could have likely made a 'better' film (at least on an emotional level), but instead they decided to make an 'impressive' film. A unique design philosophy which pays off, at least somewhat here as it totally succeed in its goal of being a one-take wonder film; and no matter how you splice it, you gotta respect that.

Its almost the same issue with Gravity - both films are roller coasters and technical marvels, but under the hood, they are basic film that might not age well on repeated viewings.