TLÜ ÕIS

History and Concepts of Documentaries

Course code

BFM6035.FK

old course code

BFM6035

Course title in Estonian

Dokumentaalfilmi teooria ja ajalugu

Course title in English

History and Concepts of Documentaries

ECTS credits

6.0

Assessment form

Examination

lecturer of 2026/2027 Autumn semester

Marianna Kaat (language of instruction:English)

lecturer of 2026/2027 Spring semester

Not opened for teaching. Click the study programme link below to see the nominal division schedule.

Course aims

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Brief description of the course

Historical Overview: The development of documentary film through major works and influential directors in Estonia and internationally.
Theory and Forms: Introduction to the concepts of creative documentary filmmaking, defining the genre, and examining the specific characteristics of non-fiction cinema.
Analysis and Screenings: Screenings of internationally recognised and classic Estonian documentary films followed by in-depth analysis.
Creative Practice: Practical creative assignments focusing on the production of video content connected to the historical development of documentary cinema and the development of creative skills.
Independent Study: Viewing and analysing recommended documentary films and producing video clips according to assigned tasks.

Learning outcomes in the course

Upon completing the course the student:
- analyses and explains the historical development, theories, key concepts, and the role of major directors and films in the evolution of documentary cinema;
- critically evaluates the use of expressive means in non-fiction film genres and the development of film language in relation to its socio-cultural context;
- applies theoretical knowledge to the systematic analysis of documentary films, distinguishing between different forms and functions of the genre;
- carries out practical creative assignments and video exercises that demonstrate an understanding of key stages in the development of documentary film and its technical methods;
- develops an analytical and reflective approach to nonfiction filmmaking, acquiring the necessary skills for preparing impactful and thought-provoking documentary projects.

Teacher

The course is a prerequisite

Directing Documentary (BFM6091.FK)
Filmmaking (BFM6093)
Filmmaking (BFM6105.FK)
TV Documentary (BFM6068.FK)

Study programmes containing that course