Ep 13. Documentarians

Close Up with the Hollywood Reporter is a television series that brings together the most notable and respected names in the film and television industry in intimate roundtable discussions with The Hollywood Reporter's editorial team. This popular series delves deep into the creative process of the people who bring some of the world's most beloved stories to life. Season 1 episode 13 is titled Documentarians.

In this episode, some of the most talented and renowned documentarians in the world take center stage and discuss their art form. The roundtable includes Kirby Dick from The Hunting Ground, Liz Garbus from What Happened, Miss Simone?, Alex Gibney from Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief, Emmy-winning War Photographer Sebastian Junger, Bess Kargman from First Position, and finally documentarian and musician Morgan Neville from his recent film Won't You Be My Neighbor?

Throughout the hour-long discussion, the group focuses on the challenges and rewards of capturing real-life stories on camera, often as they occur. Each of the guests brings a unique perspective, and the conversation is lively and engaging. They share personal stories, experiences, and struggles, as well as the moments of joy and triumph that make their work so fulfilling. They discuss the power of their medium in giving voice to the marginalized, illuminating societal issues and inspiring change.

The episode also explores what separates documentary filmmaking from other modes of storytelling, and how it can capture a more profound truth than other mediums. It provides insight into the different techniques that different documentarians use to captivate their audiences. These techniques include the line between objectivity and subjectivity, the impact of music on emotionally connecting viewers to the story being told, and the importance of perception in creating compelling narratives.

While the group is united by their passion for the craft, their work reflects a range of topics, styles, and voices, which they delve into. They draw on several exemplary works to illustrate their point, including the silence-breaking film "The Hunting Ground," touching on the importance of talking about something that has become taboo in our lives. They discuss the empathy and honesty Megan Neville brings to the screen in "Won't You Be My Neighbor?" and how Liz Garbus captures Nina Simone's talent, joy, and suffering in "What Happened, Miss Simone?"

Fans of documentary filmmaking will find this episode fascinating, and it's also a must-see for anyone interested in storytelling and the creative process. The guests' insights into their craft are both touching and inspiring, and you'll leave the episode feeling that you've gained a new appreciation for the courage and artistry behind documentary filmmaking.

In conclusion, season 1 episode 13 of Close Up with the Hollywood Reporter is an enlightening and entertaining discussion about the world of documentary filmmaking. The distinguished guests offer unique perspectives on the art of documentary and the challenges and joys of creating films that capture the world's most gripping stories. If you are a budding filmmaker or simply appreciate the art of storytelling, this episode is not to be missed!