What Is DOCUMENTARY?

Documentaries are many things to many people, often simultane- ously. They are a form of self expression, like novels, songs, or paintings. They are a form of journalism, independent and unmedi- ated. They are tools for bridging the divide between cultures or exposing the harsh realities of a volatile world. They inspire, moti- vate, educate, exacerbate, and entertain. Documentaries reflect all that is great, challenging, disturbing, and humorous about the human condition.