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Documentaries are meant to represent reality. To some modicum or degree. That has been the clear and only definitive definition we have come to throughout our time in this class. In our studies of the frameworks/modes we examined just how many techniques and filmmaking principles could be applied in getting one message or another across. But the main throughline that has linked all our studies and screenings was certainly that this particular genre of films is meant to showca

As we come to the end of the semester, we have arrived at the conclusion to our study of different documentary modes. Given the unique circumstances, we were presented with a choice to pick from one of the frameworks we haven’t yet utilized to guide this next film. With this third and final documentary mode exploration (before the final film, of course), it took me a bit of time to choose between the remaining frameworks I had yet to explore. Of the 6, I had not yet attempted

‘Documentary is the creative treatment of actuality’. It’s what we have been saying all semester long when remembering how to define such a complex and broad film genre. A documentary can be about anything or anyone, so long as it, to some extent, endeavors to represent an aspect of reality or lived experience. Film in general is a powerful tool that can give voice to the voiceless, and showcase on a personal level the creativity in the unique lives that people lead. It stand

We’ve learned throughout this semester that the different frameworks in crafting a documentary greatly impact the final outcome of the film. Though each of the frameworks contain unique aspects and standard techniques that differentiate them, they are all still linked by one common thing; their emphasis on film ‘relationships’. These relationships, in essence, are what makes each mode what they are. As an example, the performative mode is about the filmmakers relationship to

As an art form, Documentary films are inherently guided, as any other cinematic genre is, by their creators. While on the surface this influence from filmmaker to final product may seem more masked in non-fiction films, it can be argued that it is still intrinsic to the tone, messaging, and central theme of any documentary. As a result of this relationship, certain documentary modes lead above others in choosing to emphasize this aspect, even electing in some cases to call at

As the class adage goes, “documentaries are the creative treatment of actuality.” So far, throughout this semester, this definition has rung true. We have seen through our screenings and studies how many different forms a documentary film can take, the lenses through which they convey their information (literally and metaphorically), and the various possible outcomes and intentions that a non-fiction film seeks to convey. In understanding and learning about the different esta

The art of cinema is ever evolving, with new advancements in technology and technique being the foundation for the movement. As such, historically there have been few constants and patterns that continuously reappear as the form has developed. That being said, arguably one of the most important connections that has been in repetition during its time, is that between documentary filmmaking and war. From the first World War to the present, war time has historically gone hand in

Documentary as a concept is hard to fully define. This is in most part due to the varied history through which the artform has evolved...