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Bill Nichols' types of documentary (expository (Example (Sex in space…
Bill Nichols' types of documentary
observational
The filmmaker does not interact with the subject
Also known as ‘fly on the wall’ filmmaking
The filming process aims to be as unobtrusive as possible
The filmmakers aim not to make judgements and to let viewers decide for themselves
Examples
The family
ARMADILLO
reflexive
The filmmakers intend to make viewers aware of the process of filmmaking
Intended to challenge viewers assumptions about the subject but also the process of making a documentary about a subject
Usually includes details about the act of filmmaking, the filmmakers being filmed while making the film
Example
The Act of Killing
performative
The filmmaker interacts with their subjects
Filmmaker is often on camera or their voice is heard off camera
The filmmaker is the subject of the documentary – they intend to discover something about themselves through exploring a factual story or taking part in real-world events or practices
Example
Tribe
poetic
Subjective rather than objective
Low on narrative
Explores patterns and associations
High on atmosphere
Example
Big surf
expository
“Traditional” documentary style
Usually has a narrator – “voice of God”
Explains things - has a clear point of view
Often uses archive footage
Filming is unobtrusive
Example
Sex in space is serious business
participatory
The filmmaker interacts with their subjects
Filmmaker is often on camera or their voice is heard off camera
The filmmaker takes part in what is going on in order to help explain or add to the explanation of the subject of the documentary
Example
Ross Kemp Living With Knife Crime
