Focus Areas

Film & Visual Media

Highlighting and examining the power of documentary film and visual media to inform, engage, and deepen public understanding.

Related Research Initiatives

Documentary Film in the Public Interest Initiative

People get essential information through film, video, and visual media today more than ever before, and the Shorenstein Center is at the forefront of studying these vital channels. Our dedicated programs, faculty, and fellows research the creation, distribution, and societal impact of documentary film and visual media, examining how these forms shape public understanding of pressing issues in politics, policy, and culture.

We regularly convene practitioners, including filmmakers, media scholars, and journalists, to foster dialogue on challenges and innovations within documentary practice and the broader visual media ecosystem.

In recognition of excellence and impact, the Center also awards an annual prize for outstanding public-interest documentary film, highlighting works that further public knowledge and civic engagement.