Perhaps I’m being difficult, but I’m not deriving pleasure from documentaries the way I used to. I realize I’m speaking in generalities, please humor me.

I find the presentation of most modern docs so hyperdramatic and forced, it detracts from the underlying subject matter.

I would prefer if documentaries tried their best to collect and present information in a fascinating way, and present it as reasonably neutral as possible, with some leeway for the author’s voice. I don’t appreciate it when the superficial presentation constantly tries to cue me emotionally.

I really don’t understand why I have to have violen symphony music playing like it’s the eve of world war 3, and all the nukes are about to be launched, when I’m watching a documentary about snail parasites or particle collider research.

Even though it’s different auditorially, to me it’s the same principle as applying a laugh track to a comedy show. I don’t need it suggested to me when something is funny, and I don’t need to be cued by string orchestra music that something is serious or worrisome. Please trust me to make these judgments on my own!

I think all trends ebb and flow but this one seems to have taken root and it’s doesn’t seem to be letting up.

I wonder if other people feel this way, or if I’m just watching the wrong things?