In today’s lecture we explored different styles of documentary. This is essential for me to have an understanding of when planning my own documentary for this module, and any future documentaries I work on in the future.
Nichol’s 6 Modes of Documentary
Poetic Documentary
Instead of using traditional linear continuity to create a story structure, the poetic documentary filmmaker arrives at its point by arranging footage in an order to evoke an audience association through tone, rhythm, or spacial juxtaposition.
Expository Documentary
Appearing in the 1920’s, this mode constructs a specific argument or a point of view for the audience. Generally, the formula is a resonating, authoritative voice that tells you something with corresponding footage providing that it is, indeed, true.
Observational Documentary
The filmmaker observes the truth by letting the camera capture it’s subjects uninterrupted.
Participatory Documentary
This documentary mode invites the subjects to participate with the filmmaker – usually being interviewed.
Reflexive Documentary
Not about the relationship with the filmmaker and the subject, but rather the filmmaker and the audience.
Performative Documentary
This documentary mode emphasizes truth as relative, favouring a personal take over the objective lens.
Magda Kozlecka 