Introduction to Documentary

by Bill Nichols

Book Overview

This new edition of Bill Nichols's bestselling text provides an up-to-date introduction to the most important issues in documentary history and criticism. Designed for students in any field that makes use of visual evidence and persuasive strategies, Introduction to Documentary identifies the distinguishing qualities of documentary and teaches the viewer how to read documentary film. Each chapter takes up a discrete question, from "How did documentary...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0253222605
• ISBN13: 9780253222602
• Release Date: December 2010
• Publisher: Indiana University Press
• Length: 368 Pages
• Weight: 1.23 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 6.0" x 9.0"
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher

Customer Reviews

History and Basics of Documentary films

Nichols provides a concise explanation of the history and development of documentary films, as well as their roles in society. He covers the wide range of what we call "documentary", from propaganda to agenda films, and he lists excellent examples that the reader will want to watch for better context. I use select chapters in a freshmen writing class that works with documentary film and nonfiction writing--really encourages discussion. I look forward to Nichols' new book, "Engaging Cinema: An Introduction to Film Studies", as an explanation of how we view the importance of film in society. His writing style is clear, yet he raises many questions for the viewer to consider: Who funded this film? How was this film edited and presented? What are the audience responses? How does this film fit in the historical/social context of its time, our present time?

Intro to Documentary

Book is in great condition as described and it arrived on time and with no trouble.