Compilation Film: Principles and Potentials of a Documentary Genre

Abstract

My first exposure to compilation films was through television in the 1950's. To this day I recall my reaction to these exciting images, now conspicuous documents of the Cold War. Since then, the use of archival footage has increased--but not always with increased responsibility. The question of how a compilation can be assembled responsibly is one that must be asked by anyone who expects an intelligent response to films viewed.