The Role of Dramatic visual in Documentary Television Programs

10.2478/bjlp-2023-00000154

Abstract

The existence of visuals in contemporary society resulted in the structuring of a new visual culture. Dramatic visual becomes necessary in presenting an event from the ordinary becomes an extraordinary one. This dramatic visual phenomenon is massive in today's visual culture. It is worth studying the role of dramatic visuals in elevating reality and presenting visual play into the documentary television program 'Indonesia Bagus episode on Nias Island'. We limit the analysis of documentary television programs to a specific discussion. This analysis draws on the multimodal discourse of Gunther Kress and Van Leeuwen, literature on the Indonesia Bagus episode program on Nias Island, and in-depth interviews with the producers of the Indonesian Bagus program Episode on Nias Island. The research shows four main factors in presenting dramatic visuals. (1) We are placing the grammar of the film through the camera's point of view, camera movement, selection of shot size, determination of editing techniques, and background music support using film score technique. (2) There is the importance of unity between shot sizes, application of bokeh techniques, presentation of language styles, accents, grammar, and the application of natural lighting in strengthening the character of local speakers. (3) Several action shots execution combined with slow-motion effects and film scores applied in an action scene can reinforce dramatic visual elements. (4) Accuracy in frame composition usage combined with camera movement can provide a detailed picture of the shape of an architectural object.