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Dictionary by pitch.dog
Documentary modes & approaches · Working

Direct cinema

ELI5

A documentary tradition associated with unobtrusive observation of unfolding events using mobile synchronous equipment.

Used in conversation

“The proposal needs to explain the direct cinema, not just promise it.”

Pitch context

Use this in nonfiction pitches to separate what is known, accessible, ethical and structurally repeatable.

Why it matters: Distinguishes story, access, evidence, format mechanics and participant-care responsibilities.

Connected terms

  • Observational documentaryObservational documentary is a broad approach; direct cinema is a specific historical tradition within observational practice.
When the words have to travel

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Sources & evidence · 8

Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.