The Car Pursuit

What does it look like?

It’s any shot that uses a car’s mirror to show the reflection of a vehicle pursuing a character. It’s usually in a side or rear view mirror. This shot is from the perspective of the character being pursued and usually only inside the car.

How’s it done?

It’s accomplished by shooting the reflection inside a moving vehicle. It’s also nice to include the eyes of the character in the mirror as well.

When should I use it?

Use this shot to build suspense and to show the action of the car behind.

Duel (1971)

Synopsis: A business commuter is pursued and terrorized by a malevolent driver of a massive tractor-trailer.

Featured Scene: On the open road, David (Dennis Weaver) is pursued by a faceless madman ...

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