The world of celebrity documentaries is undergoing a significant transformation. As the demand for behind-the-scenes access to the lives of famous personalities increases, so do the expectations from both the subjects and the producers. According to Sara Bernstein, former HBO producer and current executive at Ron Howard and Brian Grazer’s Imagine Entertainment, documentaries like Netflix’s “Harry & Meghan” belong to a different category altogether. In a recent discussion at the MIA Market, Bernstein highlighted the rising fees associated with gaining access to celebrities and the increasing level of editorial control exerted by the subjects.
It is not just the “Harry & Meghan” documentary that has embraced this approach. Bernstein suggested that celebrities and talents of a certain magnitude now recognize their value to the industry and their audience. This understanding has driven them to become more participatory in the documentary process. They either demand a seat at the producing table or establish themselves as second producers. This shift is evident in projects like Imagine’s Apple TV+ documentary “The Super Models,” which counts Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, and Christy Turlington as executive producers (EPs). However, Bernstein emphasizes the importance of maintaining some level of editorial control.
The question arises: how do these documentaries align with viewers’ expectations? Bernstein prompts us to consider whether a documentary like “Harry & Meghan” should be seen as a hard-hitting exploration of their lives or simply as a glimpse into their world. She suggests that it may be more entertaining than informative. As such, it becomes crucial to manage our expectations and acknowledge the entertainment value that these documentaries bring. Despite ongoing debates surrounding this topic, Bernstein believes that such projects are unlikely to change in the foreseeable future.
Bernstein’s insights shed light on the changing documentary landscape, where streaming platforms have recognized the genre’s potential to captivate vast audiences. Previously, HBO dominated the premium space, but now multiple streamers have joined the race. However, Bernstein emphasizes the challenge of focusing on documentaries that can have a lasting impact on viewers while not solely relying on headline-grabbing stories or big personalities. Projects that delve into important issues but lack the immediate allure can still enlighten and engage audiences. She calls for more platforms and broadcasters to take risks and recognize the audience’s thirst for informative content.
Beyond celebrity-centric documentaries, Bernstein emphasizes the power of the medium in shedding light on global conflicts. Drawing examples from the devastating Israel-Hamas conflict, she highlights the role that documentary makers can play in fostering empathy and understanding among audiences. War reporting in documentaries has proven to be a valuable tool in helping viewers walk in someone else’s shoes and develop empathy and compassion for those going through difficult situations. By allowing audiences to see the world through a different lens, documentaries contribute to a well-informed and compassionate society.
As the landscape of celebrity documentaries continues to evolve, it is essential for both subjects and producers to navigate the changing terrain. The demand for behind-the-scenes access to the lives of famous personalities shows no signs of diminishing. However, it is equally important to strike a balance, maintaining editorial control while offering an engaging and informative experience to viewers. While the allure of headline-grabbing stories remains strong, the industry must also recognize the value of issue-driven documentaries that provide valuable insights and foster empathy.
The MIA Market serves as a platform for industry professionals to discuss and debate these ever-changing dynamics. As various players, from Paramount to Miramax to Anonymous Content, gather at this event, it becomes clear that the world of celebrity documentaries is no longer confined to the traditional boundaries of television. It has expanded into streaming platforms, attracting vast audiences and offering a unique blend of entertainment and information.
The landscape of celebrity documentaries is undergoing a significant transformation. The demand for behind-the-scenes access is on the rise, leading to increased fees and the subjects exerting more editorial control. It is crucial to manage expectations and recognize the entertainment value that these documentaries bring. While the industry seeks to strike a balance between headline-grabbing stories and issue-driven content, the power of documentaries in fostering empathy and understanding cannot be ignored. Documentary makers have a role to play in shedding light on global conflicts and promoting compassion. As the industry evolves, it is essential for all stakeholders to adapt and embrace the changing nature of celebrity documentaries.