The poetic mode of documentary film uses a subjective interpretation of its subject to create a particular mood or tone. It does not follow a traditional narrative structure, instead allowing events and characters to remain undeveloped. The editing explores associations through temporal rhythms and spatial juxtapositions in a creative way. Continuity is not important, and unrelated shots can be put together linked by music or theme to enhance the intended mood.

1. By Georgie Ryan
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2. *
The poetic mode of documentary film tends to be
towards subjective interpretations of its subject. Poetic mode isn’t like
traditional narrative contents: individual characters and events remain
undeveloped in favour of creating a particular mood or tone. This is
noticeable in the editing of poetic documentaries, where continuity is of
virtually no consequence at all. Poetic editing explores associations and
patterns that involve temporal rhythms and spatial juxtapositions. It allows
you to be creative with how you show the contents of your documentary.

3. *
* The person who films gives a subjective view. Subjective means: based on or
influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or opinions.
* There isn’t a typical narrative structure, which allows room for creativity.
* The mood or tone is created and enhanced by the music used.
* Events are undeveloped and situations can be left unsolved.
* Unrelated shots put together linked by music.
* Perceived as Avant-garde, experimental and pushes boundaries.
* Can be seen as a form of art.

4. *
* LIFE IN A DAY
* SKYSCRAPER SYMPHONY
* WORLD MIRROR CINEMA
* FILM IST. 7-12
* MICROCOSMOS
* THE LIFE AND DEATH OF 9413, A HOLLYWOOD EXTRA
* TRADITION IS THE HANDING ON OF FIRE, NOT THE WORSHIP OF ASHES

5. *
* Life In A Day is a historic film capturing for future generations what it was like to be
alive on the 24th of July, 2010.
Executive produced by Ridley Scott and directed by Kevin Macdonald.
* http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8S4gGI4nRo – Trailer
* Life in a Day is a historic global experiment to create the world’s largest user-
generated feature film. On July 24, 2010, professional and amateur filmmakers
captured a glimpse of their lives on camera and uploaded the footage to YouTube,
serving as a time capsule for future generations.
* It shows different shots of peoples days from all around the world, that are linked
together by emotive music.
* There isn’t a typical narrative structure however you can tell it goes from morning to
evening.