TRADITIONAL DOCUMENTARY

Covers a person or event from the past.

It uses only voiceover narration and a combination of archival media and created media (still images and video).

It does not use interviews.

TRADITIONAL DOCUMENTARIES WITH INTERVIEWS

As above but with the addition of interviews to document the topic.

CINEMA VERITE

Covers present day events only.

Uses created media only – no archival media of any sort.

It does not use interviews.

CINEMA VERITE WITH INTERVIEWS

This form comes in two versions

– those that adhere to the original concept with the addition of interviews

– those that add interviews and then also add archival media (still or video)

SELF REFLEXIVE DOCUMENTARY

In this form the film maker is part of the film

– could be physically present (shown on screen)

– could be included in voiceover narration

– could be subjectively framing the film’s point of view so the audience knows

Uses created and archival media (still and video).

Usually contains interviews and voiceover narration.

Modern versions are also experimenting with the addition of animation, graphics and text

HYBRID DOCUMENTARY

This format combines any of the above into one film.

NOT A DOCUMENTARY FORM – PROPAGANDA FILMS

A documentary film presents one point of view but it does allow for alternative points of view on the topic.

A propaganda film presents only one point of view and strongly condemns any alternative points of view. It attempts to “persuade”, ie: brain wash, the audience of the correctness of its perspective.

author avatar
William Anderson (Schoolworkhelper Editorial Team)
William completed his Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts in 2013. He current serves as a lecturer, tutor and freelance writer. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, walking his dog and parasailing. Article last reviewed: 2022 | St. Rosemary Institution © 2010-2024 | Creative Commons 4.0

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