DOCUMENTARY FILM ANALYSIS

1 - INTRODUCTION

Welcome to Documentary Film Analysis Click the "Start Now" button to review the course syllabus and schedule as well as familiarize yourself with the various lessons and assignments!

2 - THE EXPOSITORY MODE

Click START NOW to explore the "Expository" mode of documentary, made famous by 'voice of god' narrators like David Attenborough, whereby information is based on research and presented as fact.

3 - THE POETIC MODE

In contrast to the "Expository" mode, the "Poetic" mode of documentary shifts away from 'objective' reality and fact-based research and seeks a deeper truth using juxtaposition and visual metaphor.

4 - THE OBSERVATIONA MODE

Born out of the 1960s, the "Observational" mode of documentary leans into the 'fly-on-the-wall' approach with the goal of capturing uninterrupted truth through long takes and limited involvement.

5 - THE PARTICIPATORY MODE

In contrast to the "Observational" mode, the "Participatory" mode of documentary often includes the filmmaker as a subjective character within the film - a technique made famous by Michael Moore.

6 - THE REFLEXIVE MODE

The "Reflexive" mode of documentary often includes the conceptual process of the film itself and calls into question its own authenticity, encouraging the audience to think about where the actual truth exists.

7 - THE PERFORMATIVE MODE

The "Performative" mode of documentary typically involves the filmmaker as an active subject in the film through staged interactions or planned demonstrations in hopes of showcasing a specific perspective.

8 - IMPACT FILMS

The documentary medium has been a very powerful storytelling tool for nearly a century now. This lesson looks at some of the positive (and negative) ways nonfiction film has influenced culture over the years.

9 - FINAL ANALYSIS

Using your knowledge of Documentary Filmmaking and the Six Mode, choose a documentary from the recommended screening list and write an analytical essay that highlights a new and interesting meaning from the film.