Interviews

Definition

Interviews are structured conversations where one person asks questions to gather information or insights from another person. In narrative documentary production, interviews play a crucial role in shaping the story by providing personal perspectives, emotional depth, and key information relevant to the subject being explored.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Interviews can be categorized into different styles, such as formal, informal, structured, and unstructured, depending on the filmmaker's approach.
2. The interview process often involves building rapport with the subject to elicit more honest and revealing responses.
3. Documentarians may use open-ended questions during interviews to encourage subjects to share their stories in their own words.
4. The editing of interviews can significantly influence how a subject's perspective is portrayed and can contribute to the overall narrative structure of the documentary.
5. Capturing natural dialogue during interviews requires careful attention to sound and environment to ensure clarity and authenticity in the final product.

Review Questions

• How do interviews contribute to establishing objectivity or subjectivity in documentary storytelling?
  • Interviews play a significant role in establishing objectivity or subjectivity by offering personal viewpoints and experiences that enrich the narrative. When filmmakers use interviews to present multiple perspectives, they can create a more balanced portrayal of a subject. However, if interviews focus predominantly on one individual's story, it may introduce bias and subjectivity, influencing the audience's perception of the documentary's message.
• Discuss how the editing of interview footage impacts the narrative structure of a documentary.
  • The editing of interview footage is vital for shaping the narrative structure of a documentary. By selecting specific clips and arranging them in a particular sequence, filmmakers can control the flow of information and emotional impact. This can create tension, highlight key themes, or provide resolution, thus guiding viewers' understanding and engagement with the story. Well-edited interviews enhance coherence and contribute significantly to the overall storytelling experience.
• Evaluate the ethical considerations filmmakers must keep in mind when conducting interviews for documentaries.
  • When conducting interviews for documentaries, filmmakers must navigate various ethical considerations, particularly concerning informed consent and respect for participants' privacy. They should ensure that subjects fully understand how their words will be used and obtain permission for recording. Additionally, filmmakers need to be sensitive to the power dynamics in interviews, recognizing that subjects may share vulnerable aspects of their lives. Ethical storytelling involves portraying subjects authentically while safeguarding their dignity and well-being throughout the production process.

Related terms

Testimonial: A personal account or statement given by an individual, often used in documentaries to provide authenticity and emotional resonance.

Voice-over:

A production technique where a narrator's voice is heard over images or video, adding context or commentary to the visuals.

Fieldwork: The collection of data and information outside a controlled environment, often involving direct interaction with subjects in their natural settings.