Episode 9 – ‘Church and State’
‘Church and State’ was another exemplary directing feat by Mark Mylod. On the HBO Succession Podcast, Mylod explained that the crew faced limited access to the grand St Ignatius Loyal church, renowned for hosting high-profile funerals. In order to capture the entire funeral scene, Mylod employed the remarkable technique previously used in episode three.
Utilising a four-camera film system, each camera had a specific focus: one captured the eulogist, another captured the siblings’ reactions, a third captured close-up reaction shots, and the fourth covered wide shots. Multiple takes were shot, but the entire scene, from the arrival of the casket to its departure, was filmed in one continuous take. This phenomenal accomplishment involved a single rehearsal and no cuts during the actual filming. The actors and crew exhibited astounding talent, especially considering the need to convey raw emotions throughout the scene.
