What Makes a Good Documentary Film?

It comes down to what makes a good story. No matter what the future holds in technology for film and digital filmmaking, good storytelling will always be fashionable, evocative and relevant.

What Makes a Good Story?

There are many, many elements that can make up a good story. What is a “good” story to one person may not interest another person at all, but the story itself will likely contain some standard elements that will make it workable, believable and interesting.

Elements of a Good Story

• It captures your interest right away and never loses it

• It is unique

• It’s believable. It contains an honesty you can feel.

• The love or caring shines through

• There is discovery, an uncovering or suspense

• It entertains, educates or enlightens

• The viewer is drawn away from their reality into the story’s reality.

• Leaves audiences feeling expanded

• It has an excitement factor. People want to tell others about it

• Moves people emotionally

• It has just enough detail to describe but not enough to be boring

• It has a theme and often a sub-theme to hold it together

MAKE AND TELL A GOOD STORY AND YOU WILL HAVE A GREAT DOCUMENTARY!