Abstract
<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title> <jats:p>Documentary Film: A Very Short Introduction explores the vast range of nonfiction cinema, from Robert Flaherty’s Nanook of the North to Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé. It examines works that span ethnography, propaganda, and personal storytelling, revealing how filmmakers interpret and represent reality. This VSI traces the evolution of documentary history and the ongoing debates over truth, authenticity, and ethics in storytelling. It addresses new challenges brought by artificial intelligence, digital misinformation, and the expansion of streaming platforms. Finally, it also highlights global developments, including East Asian documentaries and emerging subgenres such as true crime and conservative advocacy films.</jats:p>