Several documentaries employ elements of narrative nature, which is an effective technique in trying to get to the audience to see their point of view. The structure, language, tone, etc. pertaining to narration, plays an important role in convincing the viewer. The two documentaries I will evaluate are Michael Moore's "Roger and Me" and "Sex, Guys and Videotapes," who's main character is Elle McFeast.
"Roger and Me," uses a narrative structure which picks up after the introductions. During the introduction phase of the documentary, Moore introduces us to the setting, "Flint, Michigan," and the main characters in the documentary. He uses archival footage of Flint and even uses his home videos to introduce himself as one of the main characters. Only towards the end of the introduction phase do we realize who the "Roger," is that is in the title. Roger Smith, General Manager of GM Motors. The introductory phase is most important to the narrative structure too, because it introduces us to our villain, "Roger Smith," and also to our hero himself, "Michael Moore," who symbolizes himself to be one some sort of quest "to bring Roger to Flint." "Sex, Guys and Videotapes," uses quite the same technique for introduction, but not as in depth has Michael Moore's. We are introduced to the main character "Elle McFeast," we see her running along the beach in a long white dress, helps to define her character effectively. There is no real setting, but interviews, etc. take place around the beach areas and outdoors. Elle Mcfeast too sets out on a quest for answers, but doesn't quite tackle them the way Michael Moore does.
"Roger and Me," takes a more in depth narrative structure, after the introduction onwards. The documentary contains all the elements of a narrative structure, the victims being the factory workers and employers, the villain being "Roger Smith," and the hero and narrator "Michael Moore." Michael Moore uses interviews and archival scenes, to position us against the villain and in his favour.
