Stoffentwicklung I: Kick-Off, Gruppenbildung

Today, the documentary film is characterised by an immense variety of forms. There are observational documentaries, socially critical, poetic, autobiographical and experimental documentaries, urban symphonies, hybrid forms, essays, docudramas and serial formats; made for television or cinema, the web or as an art installation.

Fundamentally, the documentary film is characterised by a strong narrative perspective, the interplay of form and content, its audiovisual language and a coherent dramaturgy. It is therefore not enough simply to decide to make a film about a particular subject. Every subject leads to an infinite variety of possible interpretations and cinematic possibilities. That is why it is important to define:

• What do I want to tell?
• Which aspects do I wish to communicate to the audience?
• What is my specific view of the events?
• What perspective do I adopt?
• Which cinematic techniques will I use to create the style I desire?
• How do I ultimately shape my ideas into a cinematic story?

Particular attention must be paid to the overall dramaturgy, as it forms the framework that underpins a film. Thorough research also provides an important foundation for the development of many documentary subjects:

• What tools are available for research?
• How do I get in touch with potential protagonists and interviewees?
• We will explore these questions through practical exercises in various group settings, with the aim of building team spirit.