A few thoughts on what makes a good doc work.

I think this comment is quite apt:  “When you’re watching it, and it’s something that you didn’t expect, then it works.” 

1. Get shit done.

2. Story structure matters.

3. Make it as strong as possible.

4. Every subject is worthy.

5. The director doesn't need to know everything.

A look at Wiseman's newest documentary, National Gallery, which explores the world of London's art museum.

A great list pulled together by nofilmschool.

Some interesting thoughts from Michael Moore at this year's TIFF Doc Conference. 

A very well thought out list that you will help you prepare for your interviews.

Nothing quite new, but it's interesting to note that the possibilities for digital distribution are still being figured out and the potential is there for all filmmakers.

Some very great points about the current film industry and the growing trends within it. The challenge being, how do we adapt to these changes as filmmakers and professionals within this industry?

Some helpful reminders when editing your film. Emotion>Story>Rhythm are so important for connecting to your audience.

I think the most important tip has to be the "Why you?" question you have to ask yourself. Access is key, but having that personal connection or compelling reason that makes you want to create this film is the passion that drives the project. Without it, the rest doesn't really matter.

Tabitha to aspiring documentary filmmakers: "I think as an artist your responsibility is to your art. So find your voice and speak your truth, and that is the best thing you can do as an artist"

Jackson illustrated her point with a list of values expressed as binaries in which documentary is “painting, not illustration”; “metaphor, not simile”; “the question, not the answer,” and “empathy, not sympathy.” 

Questions to think upon before pursuing your documentary subject:

1. Why should this be a movie, and not, say, a podcast, or an article?

2. Do we really want to spend the next few years with these people?

3. What’s going to be different, challenging and interesting about making this movie?

4. How do we know when to stop filming?

5. What can we do to make this movie something that people will want to see, out of a sense of curiosity or desire, not out of a sense of obligation?

A very poignant statement about documentary filmmaking today from Joe Berlinger:

"In today's world where serious journalism is under attack, we need serious, social issue filmmaking more than ever.  Print journalism has been gutted and the corporate control of most networks has meant certain subjects are off limits out of fear of offending advertisers. So, most of the important social issue reporting is being done by independent documentarians who often take great risks to bring their stories to the screen."

Something I struggle with myself as a filmmaker. I enjoy shooting so much, but also find it hard to let someone else make the decisions as to what stays in the film.