One Shot With Ed Sheeran review – well-planned spontaneity from all-smiling singer

Ed Sheeran's hour-long Netflix special is an exercise in spontaneous charm, as the singer effortlessly weaves in and out of New York City with his guitar, spreading joy wherever he goes. The entire 60-minute production is filmed without cuts, a bold move that pays off when Barantini's camera seamlessly captures Ed's unbridled enthusiasm.

From the moment Ed checks into a theatre for a concert later on, the camera follows him as he wanders through the city with guitar in hand, popping up at various impromptu gigs and gatherings. Whether it's serenading a friend proposing marriage to his girlfriend or belting out tunes on a crowded bus, Ed is always smiling, radiating an energy that's impossible to resist.

One of the standout aspects of this special is its technical prowess, particularly in Barantini's innovative camera work. The film's smooth transitions from handheld shots to drone footage and back again create an almost cinematic experience, drawing comparisons to Alejandro González Iñárritu's single-take masterpiece Birdman. It's a testament to the team's skill that they manage to capture this sense of spontaneity while still maintaining an air of elegance.

Of course, no such production would be without its moments of awkwardness – or what appears to be them. There are brief flashes where Ed's spontaneity falters, like when he misses a cab or encounters his friend Camila Cabello in the most unlikely of circumstances. But these fleeting instants only add to the show's humanizing quality.

Ultimately, "One Shot With Ed Sheeran" is an unapologetically sunny film that showcases the singer's boundless personality and infectious enthusiasm. While it may be most enjoyable for die-hard fans, its sheer charm and warmth make it a worthwhile watch for anyone who loves music, people-watching, or just a good dose of spontaneity in their lives.
 
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