As opposed to many other genres, documentary films distinguish themselves through the authentic or realistic representation of their subjects. Over the course of film history, this has led to the development of varying dramatic compositions and questionable objectivity and authenticity.

In contrast, this study uses exemplary analyses of historically important documentary films to prove that the intentional authentic effect is less a result of the relationship of the film to the reality portrayed, as it is a result of filmic presentation strategies that provide the audience with an impression of credibility.