The camera tricks that made 'Breaking Bad' a masterpiece
What's the story
Breaking Bad is renowned for its storytelling and unique visual style. The show's creators used innovative camera angles to enhance the narrative, making it a standout in television history. These techniques not only added depth to the story but also engaged viewers in unexpected ways. Here are five behind-the-scenes facts about the distinctive camera angles that contributed to Breaking Bad's success.
Perspective
The iconic POV shots
One of the most memorable things about Breaking Bad was the use of point-of-view (POV) shots. These shots often took the viewers right into the action, giving a first-person perspective which made the scenes even more tense and immersive. Be it from inside a car or through an object, these angles gave a unique way to witness important moments from the character's perspective.
Time-lapse
Creative use of time-lapse photography
Time-lapse photography was often used in Breaking Bad to depict the passage of time and set moods. It allowed for seamless transitions, keeping the viewers engaged. From hours to just a few seconds, time-lapses brilliantly highlighted changes in environment and atmosphere, driving the narrative without skipping a beat. The technique was instrumental in telling the story of changing times and places.
Placement
Unconventional camera placements
The show frequently employed unconventional camera placements to produce dynamic visuals. Cameras were placed on objects such as shovels or inside appliances, offering new angles to mundane actions. This technique not only made visuals interesting but also highlighted particular themes by focusing on specific details within scenes.
Symmetry
Emphasis on symmetry and composition
In Breaking Bad, symmetry wasn't merely a visual choice, it was a narrative tool. The meticulous arrangement of shots, the balancing of elements within the frame, subtly yet powerfully highlighted the dynamics between characters and underscored thematic elements. Directors used this technique to convey tensions or harmony, relying less on dialogue and more on visual storytelling to express the complex relationships and internal struggles of the characters.
Dutch angles
Use of Dutch angles for tension
Dutch angles were strategically deployed in Breaking Bad to evoke discomfort during key scenes. By placing the camera off its horizontal axis, these shots destabilized otherwise normal settings. This technique was the perfect prelude to a character's internal conflict or impending chaos. It also ensured that viewers remained visually entertained with every scene's emotional weight.