Different Modes Of Documentary

Within this project I was able to learn about the different genre of documentary filmmaking, this theory was explored in the classroom with a short exercise where we were assigned each documentary mode within our groups. Bill Nicholas explores 6 different modes within this theory and the one we primarily focused on was the expository mode. 

Observational Mode.

In this mode the filmmaker observes truth by letting the camera capture its subjects uninterrupted. This allows for the filmmaker to capture the current world as its happening, offering the viewers a live view to the realities around them. Typically involves no voice over commentaries, highly edited scenes or implementation of sounds, audio tracks or interviews the subject in the film acts as there is no film maker or camera.  

Expository Mode. 

 This mode focuses on providing the viewer with a singular view point of the subject matter often aiming to educate viewer on the particular topic. The mode follows a linear narrative in many cases and includes voice overs which counterpoints the visuals to illustrate to the viewer the ideologies being portrayed. the mode often includes a voice of god narrative structure, the editing in expository mode mains continuity throughout to expose an argument of perspective. Within our group we focused on Louis Therox's My Scientology Movie and the Triumph of the will by Leni Riefenstahl.These documentary ranged in the ideologies they presented as well as the time of release.  

Poetic Mode.

Instead of using traditional linear continuity to create story structure, the poetic documentary filmmaker arrives at its point by arranging footage in an order to evoke an audience association through tone, rhythm, or co-ordinated juxtaposition. Ron Fricke's  70mm Samsara is a perfect example of this mode example. Th poetic mode unlike other modes tend to follow a non linear structure which transcends the mode of space and time, usually moving from each space to another going against  the conventional style of film making. This mode offers the viewer an alternative view of the world and ideologies being presented. While challenging the viewer visually and through audio formats. 

Participatory Mode.

The participatory documentary invites the subjects to participate with the filmmaker, usually being interviewed. It also involves participation form the filmmaker to showcase their stance on the given topic. the interview style based can involve both linear and non-linear narrative structure. There can also . be certain crossovers between the poetic as the visuals can illustrate juxtaposition or the voice over can be aligned to create an emotion wth the viewer. This also gives control to the filmmaker as they can turn the situation to their advantage. 

Reflexive Mode.

This mode is not about the relationship with the filmmaker and the subject, but rather the filmmaker and the audience and the process of the film itself. Again this mode focuses to educate the viewer and aims to readjust or make the viewer re-evaluate a current stand point. this allows for the film to re-adjust the expectations and and assumptions of its audience. The mode also involves expository traits and can follow a voice of god narration. 

Performative Documentary. 

Primarily having the creator as the participant this mode emphasizes truth as relative, favouring a personal take over the objective lens. The narrative will often follow the experiences and ideologies of the film makers and the audience is presented a reality through heir eyes of perception. This allowing an entry into the creator world and their individual experience in this society. The mode places importance of the tone and mood rather than the convention theories and arguments. The final outcome often calls for an emotional understanding of the knowledge they gained through the experience.