I’m in development on a documentary and I’ve been studying the craft from every angle. One thing I keep noticing is that the gap between “good” and “great” directors usually has nothing to do with gear or budget. It’s something deeper.
So I’m curious to hear from the directors on here:
What’s the real difference maker in your experience?
Is it leadership? Story instincts? Emotional intelligence? The way you collaborate? The way you handle truth vs narrative? Something else entirely?
I’d love to hear what you’ve learned on your sets, in your edits, or through your mentors. Trying to sharpen my eye as I build my team.
Looking forward to the gems.
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I find directors of brilliant documentaries bond with the subject on an organic visceral level. They don’t merely show/tell/report. Their approach adds verisimilitude, an open mind & ask they questions to involve the audience. Also, we might see a topic from a different POV entirely, & our prior knowledge & expectations are subverted. The good documentary mines, explores & is not afraid to challenge existing beliefs. Many documentary types; Eg Animal kingdom, political, governments, social etc. Whatever the type, a fresh eyes and unique take with a revelation we don’t already know. Agree, budget does not make it, either good or bad. Footage on i phone can be ground breaking. Studios can film the mediocre but it’s how well the documentary is crafted/structured, the personality of interviewee, & their heightened union with the subject.
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Debbie, this a great insight. Thank You!