Get ready to be charmed, or perhaps, a little skeptical. Ed Sheeran's 'One Shot' on Netflix promises an hour of pure, unadulterated sunshine, following the singer's journey through New York City. He's the perpetually smiling, guitar-strumming embodiment of the music industry's sunny side, soaking up the adoration of fans and radiating it back tenfold. But does this carefully constructed image hold up under scrutiny?
This special, crafted by filmmaker Philip Barantini (known for the single-take drama 'Adolescence'), and cinematographer Nyk Allen, presents Sheeran in a continuous, single-take format (with some permissible fast-forwarding and possible audio tweaks). We follow Ed as he navigates the city, guitar in hand, from a late-afternoon soundcheck to a concert later that evening. Encounters with fans are a constant, as he embarks on a series of planned and, supposedly, spontaneous events.
Sheeran's itinerary includes an impromptu proposal serenade, a gig on a tourist bus, a rooftop birthday performance (complete with an amusingly awkward elevator ride with a non-fan), and a pub jam session. He then seamlessly transitions to the subway, playing for commuters before miraculously reappearing outside the theater. The camera follows him through the bustling foyer and onto the stage, ready to kick off the main event.
Barantini's camera work is nothing short of impressive, employing the same magic that earned him comparisons to Russian camera wizard Sergei Urusevsky for 'Adolescence'. The camera glides effortlessly through tight spaces and open skies, thanks to a team of handheld operators and drones. The cityscapes and theater settings evoke the single-take style of Alejandro González Iñárritu's 'Birdman', perhaps a subtle influence on Barantini's work. The crew, including camera operators and production assistants, remain largely unseen, ensuring the focus stays on Sheeran.
But here's where it gets controversial... While the special aims for authenticity, some moments raise eyebrows. Sheeran's initial attempt to hail a cab, which then conveniently stops for him, feels a bit staged. And then there's the chance encounter with Camila Cabello, who just happens to be driving by. The resulting carpool karaoke feels a bit too convenient. Sheeran, however, beams through it all, seemingly unfazed.
What do you think? Does the carefully curated spontaneity enhance your enjoyment, or does it detract from the experience? Share your thoughts in the comments!
