Documentary Script Outline

# Documentary Script Outline Template

Create a detailed script outline for a documentary titled [DOCUMENTARY_TITLE] about [SUBJECT], running approximately [RUNTIME] minutes.

## Project Brief
- **Genre:** [GENRE] (e.g., social issue, biography, nature, historical)
- **Central question:** [CENTRAL_QUESTION]
- **Key characters/subjects:** [SUBJECTS]
- **Thesis or message:** [THESIS]

## Scene-by-Scene Outline

### ACT ONE — Establish (0:00–[TIMECODE])
| Scene # | Type | Location | Content | Emotional Purpose |
|---------|------|----------|---------|-------------------|
| 1 | Opening hook | [LOCATION] | [DESCRIPTION] | Create curiosity |
| 2 | Context setting | Interview / B-roll | [DESCRIPTION] | Orient the viewer |
| 3 | Protagonist intro | [LOCATION] | [DESCRIPTION] | Build empathy |

### ACT TWO — Complicate (Timecode – [TIMECODE])
List 6–8 scenes that develop the central conflict, introduce opposing viewpoints, and raise the stakes.

### ACT THREE — Resolve ([TIMECODE] – End)
List 3–4 scenes that bring the narrative to an emotionally and intellectually satisfying conclusion.

## Key Interview Subjects & Story Role
For each interview subject, describe: who they are, what perspective they represent, and their 2 most important revelations.

## Archival & Visual Elements
List key archival footage, photographs, data visualizations, or re-enactments needed and their narrative purpose.

## Music & Sound Design Notes
Describe the overall sonic palette and 3–4 specific music or sound design moments that will define the film's feel.