The Art of Pre-Interviewing: Unlocking the Potential of Documentary Subjects

When we think of documentaries, we often envision raw, unfiltered glimpses into real lives and stories. The idea of "casting" in this context might seem contradictory—after all, aren't documentaries supposed to capture reality as it is? However, selecting the right subjects through pre-interviews is a crucial step that can make or break a short documentary. It's not about scripting reality but about finding the best storytellers of their own experiences.

Why Pre-Interviews Matter

1. Assessing the Subject's Storytelling Ability
   Not everyone is naturally comfortable in front of a camera or adept at conveying their story compellingly. Pre-interviews help identify individuals who can articulate their experiences in a way that resonates with audiences. It's about finding subjects who are not just part of a story but are the living embodiment of it—those who can be a powerful vehicle for their own narrative.

2. Understanding the Nuances of the Story
   Every story has layers, and a preliminary conversation can unveil aspects that might not be immediately apparent. Pre-interviews allow filmmakers to delve deeper into the subject's experiences, uncovering themes and angles that can enhance the documentary's impact. This understanding is essential for crafting a narrative that is both authentic and engaging.

3. Building Trust and Rapport
   Establishing a connection with the subject is vital. Pre-interviews are an opportunity to build trust, making the subject more comfortable and open during the actual filming. This rapport can lead to more candid conversations and a richer portrayal of their story.

Strategic Planning for Maximum Impact

1. Crafting a Cohesive Narrative
   With insights gained from pre-interviews, producers can map out the documentary's structure. Knowing the key points of the subject's story enables the creation of a cohesive narrative arc that guides the audience through the journey.

2. Identifying Visual Elements
   Understanding the subject's environment and daily life helps in planning the visual aspects of the documentary. Producers can identify meaningful locations, personal artifacts, or significant others who might add depth to the story.

3. Anticipating Challenges
   Pre-interviews can reveal potential obstacles, such as sensitive topics or legal considerations. Being aware of these issues in advance allows the production team to address them proactively, ensuring a smoother filming process.

Enhancing Audience Engagement

1. Relatability and Emotional Connection
   Audiences are drawn to stories they can relate to or that evoke strong emotions. By selecting subjects who can genuinely connect with viewers, documentaries become more impactful. Pre-interviews help identify these individuals.

2. Authenticity Over Performance
   The goal is not to script the subject but to enable them to share their truth authentically. Pre-interviewing ensures that the subject's portrayal remains genuine, avoiding performances that feel forced or inauthentic to the audience.

3. Tailoring Content to Audience Interests
   Insights from pre-interviews can guide the inclusion of elements that align with the target audience's interests. This strategic approach increases the likelihood of the documentary resonating with viewers and encourages engagement.

Conclusion

Pre-interviewing is an indispensable tool in the documentary filmmaking process. It bridges the gap between reality and storytelling, ensuring that the subject's narrative is presented in the most compelling way possible. By investing time in this preliminary step, producers and organizations can craft documentaries that not only inform but also inspire and engage audiences on a deeper level.

In the world of short documentaries, where time is limited, every moment counts. Pre-interviewing ensures that these moments are filled with authenticity, emotion, and impact, bringing stories to life in a way that truly resonates.