This book investigates the fundamental question of what defines a documentary film and how the genre has evolved as a tool for both artistic expression and social communication. Patricia Aufderheide, a professor of communication studies and an expert in media policy, utilizes her extensive academic background to provide a concise framework for understanding the documentary form. She examines the historical trajectory of non-fiction filmmaking, the ethical responsibilities of the filmmaker, and the shifting relationship between the camera and the subject. The text argues that documentaries are not objective records of reality but rather constructed narratives that reflect the perspectives and intentions of their creators.

Experts and students frequently cite this work as a foundational text for those seeking a clear, accessible entry point into the study of documentary film. Readers often note the clarity of the prose, which manages to synthesize complex theoretical concepts into a digestible format for beginners.