Most of the movies we watch are narrative films, which means they tell fictional stories with made-up characters. Even when these films are based on true events, they are designed to seem believable. But there are other types of films that don’t follow these rules: experimental films and documentary films. These genres aim to create specific feelings or thoughts, using different methods than traditional storytelling.
Experimental films break away from the usual way of making movies. They often don’t have a clear story, setting, or characters. This type of film, sometimes called “avant-garde” cinema, started as a reaction to the strict rules of narrative films that became popular in the early 1900s. People who are used to mainstream movies might find experimental films confusing because they often challenge viewers to think deeply or feel uneasy.
The avant-garde art movements began to grow in Europe during the 1920s, around the same time narrative films were becoming popular. Filmmakers like René Clair, Fernand Léger, Man Ray, and Marcel Duchamp wanted to focus on the basic elements of film—light and motion. Their works, such as Clair’s Entr’acte and Léger’s Ballet Mécanique, used abstract images and new techniques instead of traditional storytelling.
Maya Deren, an important figure in the 1940s, believed that films should create an experience rather than tell a story. Her films, like Meshes of the Afternoon, focus on emotions rather than clear narratives. Stan Brakhage, who worked from the 1950s to the 1980s, is known for his abstract images and creative techniques. Today, filmmakers like Guy Maddin continue to explore the boundaries of experimental cinema.
Many filmmakers who create narrative films have been inspired by experimental cinema. For example, George Lucas made avant-garde short films with political themes before becoming famous for his mainstream movies. Directors like David Lynch use elements of mystery and dream-like logic, blending narrative and experimental styles.
Documentary films aim to show real-life events as accurately as possible, using methods like interviews and actual footage. Unlike experimental films, documentaries are based on non-fiction, but they still reflect the filmmaker’s perspective.
Documentary filmmaking dates back to some of the earliest films, like Thomas Edison’s vaudeville acts and the Lumière brothers’ actualités. Robert Flaherty’s Nanook of the North (1922) is considered the first feature-length documentary, combining real-life footage with fictional drama.
In the 1930s and 1940s, documentaries became important for news and propaganda, with governments using them to influence public opinion. After World War II, styles like Cinema Verité and Direct Cinema emerged, aiming to show reality with little commentary. Filmmakers like Ross McElwee used this approach, mixing personal stories with historical events.
During the 1980s and 1990s, documentaries became more popular, especially on TV. Today, platforms like YouTube and Vimeo make it easy to create and share documentaries quickly. The genre keeps evolving, with mockumentaries mixing fiction and documentary styles for humor or drama.
Modern documentaries, like Werner Herzog’s Into the Inferno and Ken Burns’ Civil War, show how the genre can inform and move audiences. The renewed interest in cinematic documentaries highlights their ongoing importance in today’s culture.
In this look at experimental and documentary films, we’ve explored their unique features, historical backgrounds, and how they influence narrative filmmaking. Next, we’ll dive into fiction film production, starting with the role of the screenwriter.
Watch a short experimental film and a documentary film. As you watch, take notes on the techniques used in each film. After viewing, participate in a class discussion to compare and contrast the two genres. Consider how each film made you feel and what thoughts it provoked. Discuss how the filmmakers achieved these effects through their unique styles.
Using a smartphone or camera, create a short experimental film. Focus on using abstract images, sounds, and editing techniques to convey a specific emotion or idea. You don’t need a script or actors—let your creativity guide you. Share your film with the class and explain the choices you made in your creative process.
Choose a topic you are passionate about and create a storyboard for a short documentary. Outline the key scenes, interviews, and footage you would include to tell your story. Consider how you would present facts and personal perspectives to engage your audience. Present your storyboard to the class and receive feedback on your concept.
Research a notable filmmaker from either the experimental or documentary genre. Prepare a presentation that covers their contributions to film, notable works, and the impact they have had on the industry. Highlight specific techniques they used and how these have influenced other filmmakers. Present your findings to the class.
Work in groups to create a short mockumentary. Choose a humorous or fictional topic and use documentary techniques to present it as if it were real. Plan your interviews, narration, and footage to create a convincing yet entertaining piece. Screen your mockumentary for the class and discuss the experience of blending fiction with documentary styles.
Experimental – In the context of performing arts, “experimental” refers to innovative and unconventional methods that challenge traditional forms and techniques. – The director’s experimental approach to the play involved using abstract set designs and non-linear storytelling to engage the audience in a new way.
Documentary – A genre of film or literature that provides a factual record or report on a particular subject, often using real-life footage or evidence. – The documentary about the life of the famous playwright offered an insightful look into the challenges and triumphs of his career.
Narrative – A spoken or written account of connected events; a story, often used in literature and film to convey a sequence of events. – The novel’s narrative structure, which alternated between past and present, kept readers engaged and eager to uncover the protagonist’s secrets.
Cinema – The art of making motion pictures; a place where films are shown. – The evolution of cinema has seen the transition from silent films to the digital age, transforming how stories are told on screen.
Filmmakers – Individuals involved in the creation and production of films, including directors, producers, and screenwriters. – Aspiring filmmakers often study the works of renowned directors to understand the intricacies of visual storytelling.
Techniques – Methods or skills used in a particular field, especially in the arts, to achieve a specific effect or result. – The actor’s mastery of various acting techniques allowed her to portray a wide range of emotions convincingly.
Emotions – Strong feelings derived from one’s circumstances, mood, or relationships with others, often expressed in the arts to evoke a response from the audience. – The play’s powerful dialogue and intense performances stirred deep emotions in the audience, leaving a lasting impact.
History – The study of past events, particularly in human affairs, often explored in literature and the arts to provide context and understanding. – The historical drama depicted the turbulent history of the nation, highlighting key events that shaped its identity.
Storytelling – The art of conveying stories through words, images, or sounds, often used in literature and film to entertain, educate, or inspire. – The author’s storytelling prowess was evident in her ability to weave complex characters and intricate plots seamlessly.
Culture – The ideas, customs, and social behavior of a particular people or society, often reflected and explored in the arts and literature. – The festival celebrated the rich culture of the region through traditional music, dance, and storytelling.
