Coffee & Content: The Power of Long Takes and a Community Built by You!

Coffee & Content: The Power of Long Takes and a Community Built by You!

Happy Sunday, Creative Army!
Have you had a creative weekend so far? Whether you’ve been writing, filming, editing, or simply dreaming up your next big idea, I’ve got some inspiring content to fuel your passion and keep you moving forward. So grab your coffee, and let’s dive in.
First up, I want to share a video essay from Vanity Fair: When the Long Shot Is Actually Clever. You’ve been there, you’re deep into a movie or a series, and suddenly it hits you… the camera hasn’t cut in ages. That’s the power of a long take. And when it’s done right? It’s not just a gimmick, it’s a masterclass in storytelling, pacing, tension, and immersion.
This video walks through the evolution of the one-r and how directors from the early days of cinema to today have used this tool to push creative boundaries and connect more deeply with audiences. If you’re a filmmaker or cinematographer, you’re going to love the technical breakdown. If you’re a writer or an actor, pay attention to how the long take supports performance and narrative flow. There’s something here for everyone.
Next up, I want to talk about something that’s always been at the heart of Stage 32—you.
When I launched Stage 32 back in 2011, I did it with one goal in mind: to create a community where creatives from all walks of the industry could come together, collaborate, and elevate one another. But here’s the thing, this community will always be what YOU make of it. It’s a community built for you, by you.
Want to connect with more composers, editors, or VFX pros? Invite them. Got collaborators you’ve loved working with and learning from? Tell them about us. Click right here and send out invitations! Want more education in a specific area of the industry? Email Edu@Stage32.com and let us know. Looking to explore a new part of the industry? Drop into a Stage 32 Lounge and ask your questions! Want to make the most of Stage 32’s consultations, pitch sessions, and career development opportunities? Reach out to our Success Team at Success@stage32.com to tell them about your goals.
Everything here is designed to help you succeed, and the more you lean in, the more value you’ll get out of it. We’re not some faceless platform, we’re real people, a real team, and a real community that wants to see you win. So don’t be shy. Reach out. Ask questions. Make connections. Keep building your network and your knowledge. The industry is evolving every day, and Stage 32 is evolving right along with it, because of you. Learn more in my video here!
Now I want to hear from you—what’s one long take in film or TV that absolutely blew your mind? Was it the tracking shot in Children of Men? The club scene in Goodfellas? The battlefield sequence in 1917? Drop it in the comments below. I want to hear what moved you, technically or emotionally.
As always, we love sharing inspiration, tools, and insights that help fuel your creative fire. Know someone who would love this content? Share it with them. And don’t forget to tag us (@Stage32) if you do. You can keep up with everything we’re doing on the Stage 32 YouTube and by following me on Instagram and X: @rbwalksintoabar.
Wishing you a happy, healthy, and creative Sunday.
Cheers,
RB
Vanity Fair| When The Long Shot Is Actually Clever
RBWalksIntoABar | How Can Stage 32 Help Creatives Outside of Script Services?
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About the Author

Richard "RB" Botto
Actor, Producer, Screenwriter, Voice Artist
Richard "RB" Botto has created the online platform and marketplace designed to democratize the entertainment industry, Stage 32. By leveling the playing field for all film, television and digital content creators and professionals worldwide, Stage 32 provides networking and training opportunities as...