PRE - PRODUCTION (STAGE 3)

 What is the purpose of a documentary?

The main purpose of a documentary is to inform and educate the audience depending what topic it is. In my case, I want to gain awareness for migrant teacher assistants specifically from the Philippines. 

I did a little more digging about what a documentary is and how i can conduct a successful one to be able to capture the message i need to from this website : 

Learn About Documentary Filmmaking: How to Research a Documentary Film With Tips and Advice From Ken Burns

 

TYPES OF DOCUMENTARIES

The six categories of a documentary are performative, poetic, explanatory, interactive, observational, and reflexive. These six modes establish standards that a particular film may follow, it provides viewers specific expectations, and simplify the process of determining what should be included in the documentary. 

Poetic Doumentary 

Poetic documentaries differ significantly from other styles in that they employ tone, rhythm, or satirical juxtaposition to generate an emotional response from the viewer rather than relying on a preconceived notion to tell a story. 

The Trail of Happiness | A Poetic Documentary

Expository Documentary 

For the listener, this style develops a certain argument or point of view. Usually, there is a voiceover or a powerful voiceover. 

March of the Penguins - Original Theatrical Trailer

Observational Documentary 

This is the kind of documentary that blatantly follows the actions and movements of the subject matter being documented. To create dramatic effects, a lot of camera motions and slow-motion effects are used. 

Observational Documentary — Times Square

Participatory Documentary

This is the most typical definition of what a documentary is. In a participatory documentary, subjects are typically invited to join in the interview process. 

Participatory Documentary - Football (Leo de Smidt)

Reflexive Documentary 

This emphasizes the connection between the filmmaker and the audience, encouraging viewers to reconsider their perspectives and rethink their ideas about what is true.

Lenny D - A short reflexive documentary

Performative Documentry 

This is centered on a voiceover discussing the subject's personal life and experiences. It emphasizes truth, emphasizing a personal perspective over an objective lens.

Lenny D - A short performative documentary