Compared to other modes, performative mode films are more stylised and have a central concept. The director turns the entire movie into a show. In many cases, the presenter has a personal connection to the topic at hand.
The filmmaker’s personal experience or relationship with the subject serves as a springboard for probing wider, subjective truths about politics, history, or groups of people in performative documentaries.
Filmmakers frequently want cinematographers to record candid moments between themselves and their subjects and behind-the-scenes action. Read on to discover the history of the performative mode, films to watch, and some notable filmmakers.
The Performative mode is one of the six modes of documentary outlined by Bill Nichols.
At A Glance
- The History
- An Example of the Performative Mode
- Performative Mode vs other Modes
- Performance Mode – Ones To Watch
- Notable Filmmakers
The History
Nichols remains fairly hazy in terms of distinguishing between the performative and the participatory modes. The difference appears to boil down to whether the filmmaker is actively involved in the making of the film or not; the participatory style involves the filmmaker in the plot, but it also strives to establish truths that should be obvious to anybody.
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