State-of-the-art film technology brings history to life
Cologne/Cannes, 14 September 2010 – The united docs distribution team is presenting elaborately produced films about fascinating subjects at the international TV exhibition in Cannes. Three feature documentaries stand out for their moving story lines and artistic perfection: “Hunger – The Dark Side of our Global Economy” (90’) examines potential ways to meet the growing threat of famine in underprivileged countries such as India, Brazil, Haiti, Mauretania and Kenya. “To Russia with Jazz” (90’) documents a cultural offensive – the first American big band to tour the Soviet Union in 1962, with Benny Goodman conducting. “Two Rembrandts in the Garden” (80’) is a modern fairy tale about a young man who sets out to find the treasure of gold his grandparents buried 70 years ago. An international co-production that explores the history of European Jews, the film relies on historical flashbacks and artistic animated sequences in the style of the documentary “Waltz with Bashir.” Another programming highlight on offer by united docs is the two-part “Conquest of the World” (2 x 52’), which relates the adventures of historical circumnavigators Magellan and Francis Drake by merging live action and CGI in animated reenactments. Production is scheduled for completion in the summer of 2012; united docs is helping secure international co-producers and pre-sale partners. The monumental CGI production “Cathedrals” (90’) is going to market just in time for the MIPCOM exhibition. Its mixture of reenactments and modern computer graphics brings to life the myths and legends surrounding the erection of the great Gothic cathedrals of Sens, Canterbury, Chartres and Cologne. Through “first-hand reports” by the original master architects, artists and artisans, carpenters and builders of the 12th century, television viewers gain new insights into ancient secrets.
“Animated sequences and reenactments make it possible for us to relate history in a realistic, authentic manner. With the help of state-of-the-art animation techniques, we can recreate historical contexts and include eyewitness accounts even in cases where archive footage and historical documents are not available,” said Silke Spahr, managing director of united docs. The enhanced use of the latest film techniques is explained by the current trend toward more authenticity, educational value and adventurousness in the world of documentary films, Spahr explained.
Polished story-telling techniques and compelling narratives bring history to life and enable viewers to immerse themselves in times gone by. These films aim to help viewers discover the past by presenting historical events in the most authentic way possible. Visualization with the help of new film, computer and animation techniques makes it easier for viewers to understand the story behind the historical facts and encourages them to “fill in the gaps” in their knowledge.
