This work looks at the functions of documentary in film and television. Its attempts to depict reality and to comment on it have provoked disagreement from the 1920s to the present day. Recent debates about knowledge and representation, and about the changing character of public culture have increased its interest and relevance. The author presents a clear view of the theoretical issues and critical debates about documentary, and discusses the development of the main styles and approaches, including dramadocs and fly-on-the-wall. The book also looks at the dual identity of work in documentary as both artefact and as a reference. This work provides an analysis of specific examples of powerful documentary films and programmes such as: "Cathy Come Home" (whose presentation of homelessness and young women had enormous impact); "Life and Times of Rosie the Rivetter" (depicting the treatment of women in US factories during World War II); and "When the Dog Bites" (a view of life in the previously industrial town of Consett following the closure of the steel works).