“THE ARCHIVE”
A short documentary-style video exploring Brazilian Jiu Jitsu through curated found footage, revealing the contrast between perception and reality.
Description
I am creating a short documentary film using primarily found footage to explore the true nature of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The film will contrast how the sport is perceived from the outside with the reality of training, repetition, and persistence.
Backstory
This project is inspired by modern short-form documentaries and sports films that use archival or found footage to tell authentic stories. It draws influence from sports documentaries produced by brands such as Nike and platforms like YouTube, where storytelling is built through real moments rather than staged scenes.
Additionally, the project is influenced by documentary styles that rely on observation rather than narration, allowing the audience to interpret meaning through visuals and pacing.
Opportunity
This project allows me to create a high quality film without the need for complex filming setups, actors, or large production. By using found footage, I can focus on editing, storytelling, and sound design.
Challenges include:
- sourcing high quality and relevant footage
- ensuring clips are cohesive and tell a clear story
- maintaining a consistent visual style
It also allows me to develop skills in:
- video editing
- narrative structure
- documentary storytelling
Scope
This project will focus specifically on Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as a process, rather than as a competitive sport.
It will explore:
- repetition
- failure
- progression
- persistence
It will NOT include:
- detailed technical explanations of BJJ
- interviews with large groups
- full competition breakdowns
- other sports
The film will remain focused on the experience of training, not performance outcomes.
Target Audience
The target audience is:
- teenagers and young adults (16–30)
- people interested in sport, discipline, or self-development
- viewers who consume short-form documentaries on platforms like YouTube
This audience will relate to themes of:
- struggle
- repetition
- feeling stuck
- personal growth
Constraints
- Limited time to source and edit footage
- Minimal original filming (only opening/closing scenes)
- Copyright limitations on found footage
- Working individually without a full production team
- Access to only basic equipment (laptop, editing software)
Assumptions
- I will have access to editing software (e.g. Premiere Pro)
- Found footage will be available online and through personal sources
- The target audience regularly consumes video content online
- Short-form documentary content is engaging and accessible
- Basic filming equipment (camera/phone) will be available
Resources
- Myself (director, editor, researcher)
- Laptop and editing software
- Found footage sources (online platforms, existing clips)
- Minimal filming equipment (phone or camera for opening scene)
No additional crew is required.
Success
Success will be measured by:
- A clear and engaging narrative structure
- Smooth and professional editing
- Strong use of sound design and pacing
- Positive feedback from peers or tutors
- The ability of the audience to understand the message without explanation
Envision
The final outcome will be:
- A 2–4 minute cinematic short documentary
- Clean, minimal, and visually consistent
- Built primarily from found footage
- With a strong opening (laptop concept) and subtle ending
It should feel like:
– a real short documentary
– something that could exist on a professional platform
Deliverables
- One final short film (2–4 minutes)
- Edited in a professional format (landscape video)
- Supporting planning documents (proposal, research, development work)
- short clips and stills used for presentation or promotion