Elements of Language: Sixth Course, Chapter 8

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Writer's Model

Review of a Documentary

In a review of a documentary, the writer judges the filmmaker's art by using a set of generally accepted criteria. A reliable evaluation helps consumers make informed decisions when choosing documentaries.

Many reviews of documentaries use the structure illustrated in the framework below. Print this framework and use it as a guide when you write your own review of a documentary.

Introduction
• Hook your readers.
• Provide background information.
• State your opinion.

Spark readers' interest Use an interesting quotation or an unexpected statement from the documentary to get your readers' attention.
Fill readers in Include the title and director of the documentary and a brief summary of its subject, as well as any other background information your readers will need.
Be opinionated The purpose of your review is to evaluate and persuade, so don't be afraid to state your opinion forcefully.

Body
• Give first criterion-based reason and evidence.
• Give second criterion-based reason and evidence, and so on.

Include specifics Use references to specific elements in the documentary to support each criterion-based evaluation.
Call yourself to order Be sure to present the reasons that support your opinion in the most effective order.

Conclusion
• Restate your opinion.
• Urge readers either to see or to avoid the documentary.
• Offer a concluding thought that goes beyond the thesis.

Echo yourself Rephrase your opinion.
To go or not to go Tell your readers whether they should or shouldn't see the film.
End with a twist Give your readers something to think about by relating the documentary to their lives or offering a thought-provoking quotation.