None- fiction

Defining Documentary (Continued)

• "The Remelded Trailer" clip: Shown to prompt discussion on documentary definition.

• Initial reaction: Many participants identified the clip as a documentary.

• Instructor's counterpoint: The clip is not a documentary due to the absence of typical documentary elements.

Elements typically associated with documentaries

• Theme/meaning

• Interviews (introduced in the 1960s by the French New Wave)

• Narration

• Subject matter

• Audio and sound

• Visuals

• Voice-over

• Factual information

• Subject/character

• Contributor

Core Characteristics of a Documentary

• Must represent reality; cannot be fabricated or a spoof.

• Must be truthful and factual; manipulation must be rooted in truth.

• Reconstructions are permissible if based on truth.

• May utilize "lipstick setting" to create an illusion of real-time action.

• May include action sequences.

• Features an authentic central character.

• Develops a dramatic story with a clear beginning, middle, and end.

• Montage is a significant documentary technique originating from Russian filmmakers.

• Diegetic: Sound originating from within the scene.

• Non-diegetic: Sound added externally, such as music overlaid on the scene.

• Some documentaries focus on characters, while others are more artistic or symbolic.

• Some aim for immersion and emotional impact.

• Definition: Artistic Representation of Actuality (Cleason).

• Based on reality but incorporates creative input.

• Requires thought, editing, and engaging presentation.

Course Structure and Teaching Methods

• Lectures: Monday mornings.

• Provide tips and discuss topics.

• Covered: Definition and evolution of documentary, historical aspects.

• Seminars: Tuesdays.

• Build upon lecture content.

• Focus: Applying lecture material (historical, theoretical) to personal documentary creation.

• Activities: Deconstructing documentaries, group work, idea development, tutor feedback, and practical filmmaking.

• Workshops: Integrated with lectures and seminars.

• Focus: Practical skills in camera usage, audio recording, and editing.

• Independent Work:

• Scheduled meetings outside of class are essential for collaboration and idea development.

• Emphasis on developing independent skills.

Upcoming Topics and Course Progression

• Evolution and historical development of documentary.

• Identifying and finding good contributors.

• Narrative perspective: From simple portraits to complex story structures.

• Visualizing unfishable sequences (past or future events).

• Week 4: Pitching group ideas to the tutor.

• Interviewing: Learning and practicing interview techniques in seminar sessions.

• Preparation for shooting:

• Basic camera and audio skills, rotating focus weekly.

• Introduction to more complex equipment (e.g., red lights, boom mics).

• Mastering a complete interview.

• Individual practice session focusing on shooting for the edit and practicing continuity.

• Utilizing professional equipment.

• Editing: Three weeks before break, four weeks after break.

• Studio Inductions: Important to attend for studio access and training.

• Basic Edit Training: Provided by County Pretty Easy Edit.

• Technical and Editorial Problem Solving: Sessions with tutors to address technical and story-related challenges.

• Resource Links: Provided on Blackboard under Platform Model Resources for watching documentaries.

• Next Film: "Mind the Gaps" to be watched and discussed.