Documentary Conventions

Compilation films

Compilation films are Documentaries which comprise an assembly of archive images such as news reel footage. This is often mixed with voiceover and is common to overlap with talking heads interviews to give context and insight into what is going on. Often there is a Voice of God running through what is happening on screen.

Example: The World at War, Charlie Brooker's Weekly Wipe, Bowling for Columbine

Interview/ Talking Heads

Often used when the subject of the Documentary is still alive, or it can mix with Compilation films, this type is where testimonies are recorded about people, events, or social movements, and this is used to stir emotions and get an insight from those involved or their to witness about how they saw it and their opinion on the subject.

Example: 7 Days that shook the Weatherman, Micheal Jackson's Boys, I love 1980

Direct Cinema

Often referred to as 'Fly on the wall', this type of Documentary is usually shot from a distance, with minimal interference from those who are making it, so we get a real slice of life. Always used in Nature Documentaries and often spoofed in mockumentaries

Example- Meerkat Manor, Nothing to Declare, Blue Planet

Docusoaps

Fairly new, started with Micheal Apted's Up series, chronicling the lives of children at different intervals to see how they've grown. Has elements of documentary making, however is like soap in that it is very mediated. It makes sure to used juxtaposed characters in order to provide good viewing.

Examples- Dog Whisperer, Wife Swap, Supernanny