The Effects of Action Cameras on Non-Fiction Cinema: A Comparative Analysis of the Films Drifters (1929) and Leviathan (2012)

Abstract

There is a reciprocal relationship between the advances in recording technology and film styles. This work shows the effects of action cameras on non-fiction cinema by comparing two films that focus on the lives of fishermen. While Drifters (1929) served as a prototype for documentary film, Leviathan (2012), completely shot with action cameras, is referred not only as an original documentary, but also an art film. This work argues that action cameras, with their unique technical advantages and wide usage, have the potential for leading profound changes in non-fiction cinema. Generally, few directors and producers who had the means of production could introduce new styles and manipulated the existing ones. However, currently action cameras with professional qualities are available for amateur usages. Easy mounting options and the ability to record everywhere let people try various shooting alternatives for producing authentic and original works. Through video sharing websites, a huge number of amateur people have the opportunity to share their works, receive feedback, and be inspired by other people’s productions concurrently. This provides the most fertile condition for improvement of personal video productions, and emergence of new visual styles and artistic approaches in non-fiction cinema.