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Understanding Mockumentaries and Their Impact

May 24, 2025

What is a Mockumentary: Definition, Examples & History

Definition & Characteristics

  • Mockumentary: A work of fiction presented in the style of a documentary.
    • Originates from combining "mock" and "documentary".
    • Used to criticize, satirize, and make fun of various subjects.
  • Related to parody but with distinct differences.

Historical Context

  • Early examples include Orson Welles's "The War of the Worlds" and Luis Buñuel's "Land Without Bread".
  • The BBC's "Swiss Spaghetti Harvest" (1957) is considered one of the first mockumentaries.

Iconic Mockumentary Films and Series

Early Examples

  • "Take the Money and Run" (1969)
    • Woody Allen's first mockumentary.
    • Follows a career-criminal in a documentary style.

Popular Mockumentaries

  • "Zelig" (1983)

    • Woody Allen's mockumentary about a man trying to fit in.
    • Notable for its use of VFX and green screen technology.
  • "This is Spinal Tap" (1984)

    • Considered one of the greatest mockumentaries.
    • Follows a fictional rock band on tour.
  • "Waiting for Guffman" (1996)

    • A parody of "Waiting for Godot" with a small-town theater troupe.
  • "Best in Show" (2000)

    • Satire on dog shows with a large ensemble cast.
  • "The Office" (2001-2003 & 2005-2013)

    • Pioneered the mockumentary style for TV, leading to shows like "Modern Family" and "Parks and Recreation".
  • "Borat" (2006)

    • Sacha Baron Cohen's satirical film with actual interactions with the public.
  • "What We Do in the Shadows" (2014)

    • Horror/comedy about a group of vampires.
    • Inspired a TV show spin-off.
  • "Documentary Now!" (2015-present)

    • Parodies famous documentaries.
  • "American Vandal" (2017-2018)

    • A satirical true-crime mockumentary series.

Influence on Culture

  • Mockumentaries often expose absurdities or societal truths through humor and satire.

Up Next

  • Discussion on types of satire, including Horatian, Juvenalian, and Menippean.
  • Examples from works like "Dr. Strangelove" and "South Park".