Global Documentary

This course explores the history, theories, production practices and ethical considerations of documentary filmmaking. Topics include how documentary filmmaking evolved; close textual analysis of documentary films; ethical issues of the documentary mode; and practical applications, including subject research, narrative development, camera operations, lens choices, lighting, collaboration, budgeting, producing, and postproduction. The course provides students with the knowledge, insights, and skill set needed to research and develop a documentary film project while facilitating the development of the student’s cinematic voice and vision. This is a project-based course, and the final outcome includes a documentary pitch package and short film.