What is the purpose of an over the shoulder shot?

An over the shoulder shot serves to create a connection between two characters in a scene, often used to include one performer while focusing on another. This technique allows the audience to engage with the conversation or interaction taking place, as it emphasizes the perspective of the character in the foreground while directing attention to the character they are facing. This perspective not only establishes spatial relationships but also enhances the emotional stakes of the dialogue and interaction, making viewers feel more involved in the narrative.

The other options do not align with the primary purpose of an over the shoulder shot. A shot intended to highlight a small detail would focus closely on specific aspects of the scene, without the context of character interaction. Similarly, while orienting viewers in a scene can be a function of various types of shots, it is not the primary role of an over the shoulder shot, which emphasizes character dynamics. Lastly, recording full action from a distance is characteristic of wide shots or long shots, which aim to capture the larger scene rather than the intimate exchanges between characters.