How to Choose the Right Documentary for You

Your Guide to buying the best Documentaries

Overview

A Documentaries buying guide is the perfect resource for those wanting to explore the world of documentaries. With so many documentaries available today, it can be hard to know where to start. This guide will help readers to identify the best documentaries available, understand the different types of documentaries, and understand the considerations to make when choosing a documentary. Readers will also be provided with helpful tips and resources for making the right choice for their viewing pleasure.

Key features

  1. Genre: Consider the genre of the documentary and whether it is of interest before making a purchase.
  2. Length: Consider the length of the documentary to ensure it is not too long or too short for your needs.
  3. Release Date: Consider the release date of the documentary to ensure it is up-to-date with the latest information.
  4. Reviews: Read reviews of the documentary to understand its quality and if it is worth your time and money.
  5. Awards: Investigate if the documentary has been awarded any prestigious awards for excellence.
  6. Budget: Determine the budget of the documentary to ensure it is of the quality you expect.
  7. Distribution Rights: Ensure you understand the distribution rights of the documentary before purchasing.
  8. Narrator: Consider who the narrator is and their credibility to help ensure the content is accurate and credible.

See the most popular Documentaries on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Informative Content - Documentaries provide viewers with factual and educational information about a wide range of topics.
  • Engaging Storytelling - Documentaries often employ a variety of methods to tell a story that grabs the viewers and keeps them engaged.
  • Accessible Formats - Documentaries are widely available in both physical and digital formats, making them easy to access.
  • Unique Perspectives - Documentaries offer unique perspectives on a variety of topics, providing insight and context to a topic.
  • Entertaining - Documentaries are often entertaining and can provide a captivating point of view on a given topic.

Cons

  • Lack of Narrative Structure - Documentaries often lack the traditional narrative structure of a feature film, so viewers may find it easier to lose interest or forget the plot.
  • Potential Bias - Different documentary filmmakers may have different perspectives and biases that can be presented in their work, so it's important to consider the filmmaker's background and the type of information presented.
  • Restrictions and Limitations - Documentaries are often limited by time, budget and access to resources, which can result in a lack of depth and detail.
  • Potential for Misinformation - Since documentaries are often based on personal or subjective opinions, it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction, making it important for viewers to do their own research.

Best alternatives

  1. Biographical Films - Narrative based films that tell the story of a particular person's life.
  2. Educational Films - Films that serve to inform viewers about a particular subject or issue.
  3. Experimental Films - Non-narrative films that push the boundaries of traditional film production.
  4. Independent Films - Independent films are generally self-funded and often feature up-and-coming actors, directors, and writers.
  5. Narrative Films - Narrative films that follow a traditional plot structure.
  6. Short Films - Short films are usually under 15 minutes in length and can range from documentary to narrative.
  7. Social Issue Films - Films that focus on particular social issues such as poverty, the environment, and racial injustice.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

    Camera - A camera is necessary to film the documentary. Microphone - Microphones can help capture sound to accompany the visuals of the documentary. Lighting Equipment - Lighting equipment helps to create a professional look for the film. Editing Software - Editing software allows for the film to be polished and put together. Storage Devices - Storage devices are needed to save the footage and edits of the documentary.

Common questions

  1. How can I decide which Documentary to watch? Consider the type of subject matter that interests you, the length of the Documentary, and reviews from people who have watched it.
  2. Are Documentaries suitable for children? It depends on the content of the Documentary. If you're unsure, you can read reviews or view the Documentary in part before deciding if it is appropriate for your child.
  3. Where can I watch Documentaries? Documentaries can be found on streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and other streaming services, as well as in movie theaters, on DVD or Blu-ray.
  4. How much do Documentaries cost? Depending on the platform, Documentaries can range from free to around $20 or more, for special editions.
  5. Are there any free Documentaries? Yes, there are many free Documentaries available online, such as on YouTube and other streaming services.

Trivia

A funny fact about documentaries is that the film Schindler’s List was originally released as a documentary in 1993. In 1994, it was re-released as a feature film and went on to win seven Academy Awards. It’s hard to imagine that a film which is so well-known is actually a documentary! This fact was reported by MentalFloss.com.

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.