Comparing the conventions of two documentaries

Comparing the conventions of two documentaries

Documentary 1 - Confessions of a Serial Killer/ 1994/ Crime

- The opening credits tell you of the things Jeffrey Dahmer did, for example it says '17 MEN & BOYS KILLED' as the viewer of this documentary you are bound to know that these were the crimes he committed and convicted of before you have even watched it. The titles are made to stand out against the black background and this can be seen with the use of white and red writing. As the documentary is about a serial killer the red emphasises the words and automatically you associate the colour with blood. 

- In the first minuet of the documentary Stone Phillips who is the interviewer poses questions, but at the same time makes statements that allow you to get a feel for whats to come, it is here you also see different snippets from the rest of the interview, that entices you as the viewer in. 

- After the credits take place you see Phillips stood in what looks like an office environment, talking towards the camera this is an example of a Talking Head, someone with authority that is presenting the facts to the camera. 

- The music that is played in the background is also quite eerie, this makes the documentary uneasy which it is as you are finding out about a serial killer. 

- There isn't a big range of shots within the first 5 minuets of the documentary. Close ups tend to be used as you are able to see the reactions of the interviewees, in this case Jeffrey himself and his father who is also present. You also see a wide shot before the interview starts and this sets the scene of the room in the prison, you are then able to see the set up of the equipment and the people that are present at the time, including police officers. 

Documentary 2 - World Cups most shocking moments/2010/Sports

-Talking head - Peter Crouch and Richard Bacon, both presenting. Close ups of their faces are used to show their facial expressions while talking. 

- Various interviews from famous people have also been included during the documentary

- Voice over, exciting music which follows a theme when each country is spoke about. However even though there is music being played you are able to hear whats being said. 

- There is also a comedy element that comes from peter crouch when he is talking about his experience when playing football
- The title also stands out and shocks you as it's in your face
- Graphics used to show who's being interviewed and what the games are that the archive footage shows

Conventions list - Similarities and Differences 

- The documentary on the World Cup includes an voice over on top of some of the footage, however both videos include talking heads which present to the information to the camera

- Both of the documentaries have title sequences that stand out. There both powerful and have a dominating title to draw in the viewers.

- The music used links with the atmosphere of the documentary. For example, Confessions of a serial killer has quite haunting music, which is more fast paced, whereas the music used in the World Cups most shocking moments was more upbeat as it isn't a very serious subject.

- Archive footage has been used in both documentaries, as well as graphics.