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".