Documentary vs. Feature Film — What's the Difference?

Documentary and feature film are two distinct genres within the realm of cinema. A documentary aims to depict reality, focusing on actual events, people, and situations. They often seek to inform, educate, or shed light on particular subjects or events. Feature films, on the other hand, revolve around fictional narratives, weaving tales primarily for entertainment purposes, and can encompass a variety of genres like comedy, drama, and action.

While documentaries emphasize truth and often employ interviews, archival footage, and narration to convey their message, feature films lean on scripts, actors, and orchestrated scenes to tell their stories. For instance, a documentary might explore the impact of climate change using expert testimonies and real-life evidence, whereas a feature film might craft a fictional tale set in a post-apocalyptic world affected by global warming.

Furthermore, the intention behind both types of films often differs. Documentaries typically aim to raise awareness, provoke thought, or promote change regarding specific issues or subjects. Feature films, conversely, primarily focus on entertaining the audience, though they can also inspire, educate, or challenge societal norms.

It's important to note, however, that the boundaries between documentaries and feature films can sometimes blur. Mockumentaries, for example, use the documentary format but present fictional events, while some feature films are based on true stories, adding dramatized elements to real events.