Documentary Style

and Genre

Observational

Appears to be invisible.

Observes on whats happening but does not

intrude.

Propaganda &
Advocacy

Made with explicit purposes of influencing an

audience to a particular point of view.

Usually commissioned by organisations to get

their message across.

Personal Journey

Documents an individual person.

Presents a biographical or autobiographical

story of an individual or a group of people.

The story usually feature a specific event or

an aspect of a persons life.

Using Archive

Uses existing materials (newspaper, old

documentaries etc.)

The story is developed through the use of still

photos, documents, footage from television.

Using Drama

Uses famous actors sets and props to

recreate/ re-enact events based on
eyewitness accounts historical events,
transcripts or hearsay to bring the story alive.

However, critics debate that using drama

blur the boundaries of fact and fiction.

Using Issue

Focuses on issues that are important within

the community. (local and international)

Filmmakers believe it will be a powerful tool to

influence social change.

Using Comedy

Filmmakers uses humor to make their point.

Usually done by using surprising characters,

parodying other styles of documentary and
introducing satire.

Despite the jolly mood of it, it usually has a

serious message.

Documentary Essay

Stylised film representing a filmmakers point

of view about an issue, problem or argument.

Often uses a narrator or becomes an active

participant.