The Importance of Research in Documentary Filmmaking (RTR)
The importance of research:
It can help you work around what the ācentralā or most important question of your work is. A film has to have a question or argument that can be backed up. Without a question/argument, the film can fall flat and become unimportant.
It can help you to choose a subject you are passionate about. Nobody wants a documentary made about something that has no meaning to you as a filmmaker. It will show through your work that you are not passionate about the subject and the film will not be engaging.Ā
It can add a level of depth to your work.Ā
How to approach researching a subject?
Investigate from all angles. Look from every argument to find what makes your argument the strongest and the one which needs to be told.Ā
Understand that becoming an expert about the subject will help you grow as a filmmaker and learn so much more about the world.
Sources of research can include:
Books, articles, essays (google scholar, library, internet).
Films (cinema, library, websites).
Photographs (galleries, books, archives).
Art forms (museums, galleries, books).
Location visits (galleries, studios, houses).
Formal interviews (main character, family members, experts).
Researching through observation means to follow a place or person and observe the environment from an outward perspective, thus giving you insight into a routine or character.
Researching through immersion means to go to a place or environment in which you take part in a routine etc., thus helping you gain a better understanding and overall empathy towards the subject.
What to do with research?
Record and document.Ā
Make notes on what is useful from viewings and copy down quotes, write summaries etc.Ā
Print out any needed photography for research and make notes on why it is suitable and relevant.Ā
Record and transcribe interviews.
Make notes about specific routines encountered through observation or immersion and add a personal reflection which can be added to documentary.














