Unpacking the Ethical Minefield of Docs With the Team Behind ‘Subject’

When we watch documentaries, we often don’t think about how these films can leave a lasting impact on the lives of the participants. Not only do the films affect their reputation, but they can affect their businesses, relationships, and mental health. In this unprecedented era of documentary filmmaking, it’s time we take a serious look at the effects these films have on the lives of the subjects.

In today’s episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with Jen Tiexiera, Susanne Reisenbichler, Matt Klug, and Josh Harding to discuss:

• How each of these filmmakers came to the world of documentary
• All the sacrifices involved in creating a documentary film
• Being clear about boundaries and expectations with the crew from the beginning
• DAWG’s Framework for values, ethics, and accountability in nonfiction filmmaking
• The depth of the connection between crew and actors
• Finding the participants who would be featured in the films
• Shifting the way things are done to improve lives of participants and the crew
• Establishing a consent calendar with the participants and what that looks like
• The first steps to creating a documentary film

Memorable Quotes

• “When you’re bringing the people around you that you’re going to go into battle with, it’s extremely important that everything is out on the table.” [14:00]
• “We’re entering a new era of bringing the humanness back into filmmaking.” [19:52]
• “I want to document their life. I want to document what they’re doing…It’s about respecting their space. Respecting who they are.” [24:02]
• “Documentary is and always should be a really intense collaboration.” [44:03]

Mentioned:

Subject

Follow Subject Film on IG 

Follow Susanne on IG

Follow Jen on IG

Chasin' Butterflies

Chasin' Butterflies Record & Movie

Follow Josh on IG

Follow Matt on IG

DAWG Framework

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