Nichols Ch 7 (p 132-137: Observational Mode), Barnouw Ch 5 (p 229-252: Observer)

Observational documentaries are invaluable pieces of history and art. They give us a glimpse into settings and peoples that we would otherwise never get to see. Most of history records powerful people and leaders or makes broad statements about the masses. Observational documentaries, when made well, give us a window into a sliver of time unlike any art form. Barnouw speaks about the polarization observational documentary caused among viewers delighted or disgruntled over the lack of voice from the artist. Keeping aloof from the easy black-and-white world view and choosing to trust the audience to handle the grey area is key to creating compelling documentary work.

How has observational documentary changed over the years?

What is the state of observational documentary today?

How have the lives of those filmed been altered by these documentaries?

How do the subjects feel the documentary did in showing their story?

How often do directors put themselves in the movie to show their own disturbance of the setting?