Movies have the power to transport us to different worlds, evoke emotions, and leave a lasting impact on our minds.
Within these cinematic experiences, there are certain shots that stand out as iconic and memorable.
These shots are often meticulously crafted by directors, cinematographers, and their teams to create visually stunning moments that enhance the storytelling.
Best Shots in Movie History
- “Gone with the Wind” (1939) – The Burning of Atlanta
- A wide shot capturing the massive fire and destruction, with the silhouettes of the main characters in the foreground.
- “Citizen Kane” (1941) – The Rosebud Reveal
- The final shot revealing the meaning of “Rosebud,” showing the sled being thrown into the furnace.
- “Psycho” (1960) – The Shower Scene
- The extreme close-up of Marion Crane’s eye as she is being murdered in the shower.
- “Lawrence of Arabia” (1962) – Desert Entrance
- The long shot of Sherif Ali’s entrance as a mirage slowly materializing in the desert heat.
- “2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968) – The Star Gate Sequence
- The colorful and abstract shots representing Dave Bowman’s journey through the Star Gate.
- “Apocalypse Now” (1979) – Helicopter Sunset
- The silhouette of helicopters flying against the backdrop of a setting sun, accompanied by “The Ride of the Valkyries.”
- “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” (1982) – Flying Bicycle
- The silhouette of E.T. and Elliott flying on a bicycle against the backdrop of a full moon.
- “Pulp Fiction” (1994) – Mia Wallace Overdose
- The overhead shot of Mia Wallace overdosed, lying on the floor with a medical marker circling her chest.
- “Inception” (2010) – Paris Bending Scene
- The shot where the city of Paris folds over itself, defying gravity and showcasing stunning visual effects.
Each of these shots is memorable for its visual artistry, emotional impact, and contribution to cinematic language and storytelling.
Below we look deeper at some of the best shots in movie history, analyzing their significance and the techniques used to achieve them.
Table of Contents
The Power of Visual Storytelling
Visual storytelling is a crucial aspect of filmmaking.
It allows directors to convey emotions, themes, and narratives through the composition, lighting, and movement within a shot.
A well-executed shot can capture the essence of a character, highlight a pivotal moment, or establish the atmosphere of a scene.
1. The Opening Shot of “Citizen Kane” (1941)
One of the most famous shots in movie history is the opening shot of Orson Welles’ “Citizen Kane.”
The shot begins with a close-up of a “No Trespassing” sign and then slowly moves through a broken-down gate to reveal the grandeur of Xanadu, the mansion where Charles Foster Kane lived.
This shot effectively sets the tone for the entire film, introducing the audience to the mystery and complexity surrounding Kane’s life.
The significance of this shot lies in its use of deep focus, a technique that keeps both the foreground and background in sharp focus.
This allows the audience to take in all the details of the shot and emphasizes the vastness of Kane’s empire.
The movement of the camera adds a sense of exploration and curiosity, drawing viewers into the story from the very beginning.
2. The Shower Scene in “Psycho” (1960)
Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho” is known for its suspenseful storytelling and innovative camera techniques.
The shower scene, in particular, is a masterclass in building tension and creating a memorable shot.
As Marion Crane is brutally attacked in the shower, the camera cuts between extreme close-ups of her face, the knife, and the water swirling down the drain.
This sequence is a prime example of how editing can enhance the impact of a shot.
The rapid cuts and close-ups intensify the sense of danger and disorientation, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Hitchcock’s decision to use black and white cinematography also adds to the starkness and brutality of the scene.
The Role of Cinematography
Cinematography plays a vital role in capturing the best shots in movie history.
It involves the use of camera angles, lighting, framing, and movement to create visually striking images that support the narrative and evoke emotions.
3. The Aerial Shot in “Lawrence of Arabia” (1962)
“Lawrence of Arabia,” directed by David Lean, is renowned for its breathtaking cinematography.
One of the most memorable shots in the film is the aerial shot of T.E. Lawrence (played by Peter O’Toole) riding his camel across the vast desert landscape.
This shot captures the isolation and grandeur of the desert, emphasizing Lawrence’s journey and the challenges he faces.
The use of an aerial shot allows the audience to see the vastness of the desert and the smallness of the human figure within it.
The composition and framing of the shot create a sense of awe and emphasize the epic nature of Lawrence’s story. This shot has become an iconic image in cinema history.
4. The Tracking Shot in “Goodfellas” (1990)
Martin Scorsese’s “Goodfellas” is known for its dynamic camerawork and immersive storytelling.
One of the most famous shots in the film is the tracking shot through the Copacabana nightclub.
As Henry Hill (played by Ray Liotta) enters the club with his date, the camera follows them seamlessly through the back entrance, kitchen, and into the main room.
This shot is a technical marvel, as it required precise coordination between the camera operator, actors, and set design.
The tracking shot creates a sense of excitement and immersion, allowing the audience to experience the glamour and allure of the nightclub alongside the characters.
It is a prime example of how cinematography can enhance the narrative and draw viewers into the world of the film.
The Evolution of Technology
Advancements in technology have revolutionized the way movies are made and have opened up new possibilities for creating visually stunning shots.
From the use of CGI to innovative camera equipment, filmmakers have embraced these tools to push the boundaries of visual storytelling.
5. The Bullet Time Shot in “The Matrix” (1999)
“The Matrix,” directed by the Wachowski siblings, introduced audiences to the groundbreaking “bullet time” technique.
In one of the film’s most iconic shots, Neo (played by Keanu Reeves) dodges bullets in slow motion while the camera rotates around him.
This shot was achieved using a combination of practical effects and CGI.
Multiple cameras were set up in a circular rig, capturing the action from different angles simultaneously.
The footage was then stitched together to create the seamless rotation effect.
The bullet time shot became synonymous with “The Matrix” and has since been replicated and parodied in numerous films and commercials.
6. The Gravity-Defying Shot in “Inception” (2010)
Christopher Nolan’s “Inception” is known for its mind-bending visuals and intricate storytelling.
One of the most memorable shots in the film is the gravity-defying hallway fight scene.
As Arthur (played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt) fights off attackers in a rotating hallway, the camera follows the characters’ movements, creating a disorienting and visually stunning sequence.
This shot was achieved using a combination of practical effects, such as a rotating set, and CGI enhancements.
The seamless integration of practical and digital elements creates a sense of realism and allows the audience to fully immerse themselves in the gravity-defying action.
The shot exemplifies how technology can be used to push the boundaries of visual storytelling and create unforgettable cinematic moments.
FAQs – Best Shots in Movie History
1. What makes a shot memorable in a movie?
A shot becomes memorable when it effectively conveys emotions, enhances the storytelling, and leaves a lasting impact on the audience.
It can be achieved through various techniques such as composition, lighting, movement, and editing.
2. Are there any specific genres that have more memorable shots?
Memorable shots can be found in all genres of film.
However, certain genres like science fiction and fantasy often rely on visual spectacle, which can lead to more visually stunning and memorable shots.
3. How do directors and cinematographers plan and execute these shots?
Directors and cinematographers work closely together to plan and execute shots.
They collaborate on storyboards, shot lists, and pre-visualization techniques to ensure that the shots align with the overall vision of the film.
On set, they coordinate with the camera crew, actors, and other departments to bring the shots to life.
4. Can memorable shots be achieved without advanced technology?
Absolutely! Memorable shots can be achieved through creative storytelling, innovative use of practical effects, and traditional cinematography techniques.
While advanced technology can enhance the possibilities, it is not a prerequisite for creating memorable shots.
5. Are there any recent movies with notable shots?
Yes, there are several recent movies with notable shots.
For example, the long take in “1917” directed by Sam Mendes, which follows the protagonist through the trenches of World War I, has garnered praise for its technical achievement and immersive storytelling.
6. Do memorable shots always require a big budget?
No, memorable shots can be achieved on any budget.
While a larger budget may provide more resources and opportunities for elaborate shots, creativity and storytelling are ultimately what make a shot memorable, regardless of the budget.
7. Can shots from older movies still be considered the best?
Absolutely! Shots from older movies can still be considered the best because they have stood the test of time and continue to inspire filmmakers today.
The techniques and craftsmanship used in these shots are often revered and studied by aspiring filmmakers.
8. Are there any shots that have become iconic outside of the film they belong to?
Yes, there are shots that have become iconic outside of the film they belong to.
For example, the “bullet time” shot from “The Matrix” has been widely referenced and parodied in popular culture, showcasing its impact and cultural significance.
9. Can a single shot make a movie memorable?
A single shot can certainly contribute to making a movie memorable, but it is often a combination of multiple shots, along with other elements like storytelling, performances, and music, that create a lasting impact on the audience.
10. Are there any shots that have influenced other filmmakers?
Yes, many shots have influenced other filmmakers. For example, the shower scene in “Psycho” has been referenced and homaged in numerous films and TV shows, showcasing its influence on the horror genre and visual storytelling techniques.
11. Can shots from animated movies be considered among the best?
Absolutely! Shots from animated movies can be considered among the best because they require meticulous planning, attention to detail, and artistic vision.
Animated films often push the boundaries of visual storytelling and can create stunning and memorable shots.
12. How do shots contribute to the overall cinematic experience?
Shots contribute to the overall cinematic experience by enhancing the storytelling, evoking emotions, and immersing the audience in the world of the film.
They can create a sense of atmosphere, establish the tone, and provide visual cues that guide the viewer’s understanding of the narrative.
13. Can shots be subjective in their interpretation?
Yes, shots can be subjective in their interpretation.
Different viewers may have different emotional responses or interpretations of a shot based on their personal experiences and perspectives.
This subjectivity adds to the richness and depth of the cinematic experience.
14. Are there any shots that have become more impactful with time?
Yes, there are shots that have become more impactful with time. As societal and cultural contexts evolve, certain shots may gain new meanings or resonate differently with audiences.
These shots continue to be appreciated and analyzed for their enduring impact.
15. Can a shot be considered the best without being widely recognized?
A shot can be considered the best without being widely recognized because its quality and impact are not solely dependent on popularity.
There are many hidden gems in cinema that may not have received mainstream attention but are still celebrated by cinephiles and industry professionals for their artistic merit.
Summary – Best Shots in Movie History
The best shots in movie history are a testament to the power of visual storytelling and the creativity of filmmakers.
From the opening shot of “Citizen Kane” to the gravity-defying sequences in “Inception,” these shots have become iconic and continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers.
Through the use of cinematography, directors and cinematographers can create visually striking images that enhance the narrative, evoke emotions, and leave a lasting impact on the audience.
Techniques such as deep focus, tracking shots, and aerial shots have been used to great effect in films like “Psycho,” “Goodfellas,” and “Lawrence of Arabia.”
Advancements in technology have also played a significant role in shaping the best shots in movie history.
From the bullet time shot in “The Matrix” to the gravity-defying sequences in “Inception,” filmmakers have embraced new tools and techniques to push the boundaries of visual storytelling.
Ultimately, the best shots in movie history are a result of the collaboration between directors, cinematographers, and their teams.
These shots not only enhance the storytelling but also become iconic images that define the films they belong to.
