Ep 14. Documentary

Close Up with the Hollywood Reporter is a television series that provides in-depth discussions among the most successful and popular actors, writers, and producers in the entertainment industry. With season 4 episode 14, titled "Documentary," the show explores the world of documentary filmmaking.

In this episode, host Lacey Rose sits down with six noteworthy documentary filmmakers: Kirby Dick (The Invisible War), Bing Liu (Minding the Gap), Alexandria Bombach (On Her Shoulders), Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi (Free Solo), Morgan Neville (Won't You Be My Neighbor?), and Tim Wardle (Three Identical Strangers). Throughout the discussion, they delve into the often underrepresented yet significant genre of documentaries and their respective processes in creating these cinematic works of art.

The conversation starts with a reflection on how documentaries have become more mainstream in recent years. Kirby Dick, a pioneer in the field of investigative documentaries, mentions how he became more interested in documentaries as a way of revealing injustices than in the mainstream form of entertainment. Meanwhile, Alexandria Bombach, who directed On Her Shoulders, notes that this is the best time for documentaries, as there is "an audience for almost anything."

The group then talks about the different challenges of filming documentaries, including the unpredictable nature of real life and the sensitive topics covered in some documentaries. For example, Bing Liu mentions that Minding the Gap became a personal documentary for him as it delves into his past and the complex relationships he has with his family and friends. Morgan Neville also notes the importance of filmmakers acknowledging their potential impact on their subjects, as highlighted by his experience working on his Mr. Rogers documentary.

Another interesting topic the group tackles is the role of editing in documentary filmmaking. As opposed to scripted films, documentaries are built on the editing process, as it is essential in telling the story and shaping the audience's perspective. Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi highlights how she and her co-director Jimmy Chin spent two years editing Free Solo, their heart-pumping documentary about free climber Alex Honnold, so that the narrative was powerful and emotionally resonant.

The episode then moves to the rapid shifts happening in the film industry, specifically in terms of streaming and delivery platforms. The panel largely agrees that though the streaming platform has been beneficial in expanding the documentary audience, it can pose a challenge for filmmakers reaching for theatrical releases. Meanwhile, Tim Wardle emphasizes the necessity of having a top-notch title sequence in the realm of television, where viewers might be more impatient and less invested in watching an entire movie.

All in all, Close Up with the Hollywood Reporter's "Documentary" episode offers a rare and insightful perspective into the world of documentary filmmaking, a genre that is often misunderstood and underappreciated. The roundtable discussion provides enthusiasts and budding documentarists with key takeaways, inspiration, and practical advice on the challenges and potential of documentary filmmaking.