In reflecting on two impactful documentaries and the techniques they employ, I have chosen “Chasing Coral” directed by Jeff Orlowski and “A Plastic Ocean” directed by Craig Leeson. These films utilise different approaches, modes, and devices to convey their messages effectively and engage audiences in critical discourse.

“Chasing Coral” is a visually stunning documentary that explores the devastating effects of climate change on coral reefs around the world. Orlowski employs a mix of breathtaking underwater cinematography, time-lapse photography, and scientific data visualisation to document the rapid decline of coral reefs due to warming ocean temperatures. One of the most striking techniques used in the film is the time-lapse sequences, which vividly illustrates the process of coral bleaching and death over time (Orlowski, 2017). This approach not only highlights the urgency of the climate crisis but also serves as a powerful visual metaphor for the fragility of marine ecosystems. When thinking of our documentary the underwater scenes in this film are something we will draw upon within “Rewilding Our Oceans”.

Similarly, “A Plastic Ocean” takes a comprehensive approach to addressing the global problem of plastic pollution in the oceans. Leeson blends investigative journalism, expert interviews, and stunning aerial footage to expose the scale and impact of plastic waste on marine life and human health. One of the most impactful scenes in the film is the exploration of a remote island in the Pacific Ocean, where plastic debris covers the beaches and threatens the survival of wildlife (Leeson, 2016). This approach provides viewers with a visceral understanding of the consequences of plastic pollution and underscores the need for urgent action to address the problem.

These documentaries align with the principles outlined in the Doc Society’s Impact Field Guide, which emphasises the power of documentary storytelling to drive social change. Both “Chasing Coral” and “A Plastic Ocean” utilise storytelling devices such as personal narratives, scientific evidence, and captivating visuals to engage audiences and prompt them to take action on pressing environmental issues.

While both “Chasing Coral” and “A Plastic Ocean” primarily utilise the expository style to convey factual information about pressing environmental issues, they also incorporate elements of other documentary styles to enhance their storytelling. In “Chasing Coral,” observational footage of coral reefs and participatory interviews with coral reef enthusiasts add depth and authenticity to the narrative, providing viewers with a firsthand glimpse into the beauty and fragility of marine ecosystems. Similarly, “A Plastic Ocean” features performative elements as the filmmakers embark on a journey to investigate plastic pollution firsthand, immersing audiences in the urgency of the global plastic crisis.

Drawing inspiration from these documentaries, our own film seeks to strike a balance between the poetic and expository styles, aiming to engage audiences emotionally while also providing them with factual information about environmental challenges. Our film will also hold some observational conventions as well as participatory as we would like to interview both Narayana who is a freediver as well as Ella who owns a sustainable swimwear company. Within these interviews we will not only capture direct chat to cameras but also observational moments where they are just in their natural form doing what they love, e.g: swimming, cleaning the beach on a morning walk, or making swimwear content.

Also by leveraging the power of cinematography and following the suggested steps found in Writing, Directing, and Producing Documentary Films and Videos (1996), (pp 206-220) like how they suggest that “Good documentaries should have some kind of conflict” (p.209) using investigative journalism we will find some either internal character conflict or environmental change conflict information to provide more of a climax and arc to the story. An example of this is providing footage of how people who aren’t so environmentally aware juxtaposed with images of the planet dying.  

Additionally, we are intrigued by the use of time-lapse photography and aerial footage to provide a unique perspective on environmental degradation. According to Writing, Directing, and Producing Documentary Films and Videos (1996), “The camera captures a selective and subjective view of reality, influenced by the filmmaker’s intentions and the editing process” (p. 203) This specific camera angle and editing choice allowing audiences to see the impact of human activities on the natural world from a new angle. We aspire to create a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating experience that prompts viewers to reflect on their relationship with the planet and inspires them to take action for positive change.

As noted in the Impact Field Guide, documentaries have the capacity to create cultural moments and prompt people to engage and act (Doc Society). By harnessing the power of storytelling and visual imagery, we aim to create a film that resonates with audiences on a deep emotional level and inspires meaningful action towards a more sustainable and equitable future. 

Pitch Document:

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGCc_Ty0L0/wfwOAEDiUiHOfxDw-_lW2w/edit?utm_content=DAGCc_Ty0L0&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton

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