Documentary structure

This is the ideal structure of a successful documentary

Act 1: intro to the subject or character

• Introduce the theme or subject

• What is the documentary about

What is the unique angle

• Who are your main contributors

Act 2: the journey

• Now you take your audience on a journey

• Provide context (historical or personal)

• Provide an insight into the unknown

• Interview experts or key characters

• Gage the opinion of the public

• Provide facts that back up your thoughts

Act 3: the resolution

• Provide a conclusion to your documentary

• Summaries everything the audience has learnt from watching your documentary.

• End with a statement that either highlights your viewpoint or lets the audience decide for themselves

• Ensure you have achieved your initial purpose.