How to Cite a Documentary in APA (7th edition)
Learn how to cite documentary films and non-fiction films in APA format (7th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.
APA Reference List Format
Here is the standard APA format for citing a documentary in your reference list:
Director, A. A. (Director). (Year). Title of documentary [Film]. Studio/Distributor.
APA Example for a Documentary
A complete APA reference for a documentary, formatted by the official APA CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:
Ferreira, B. (Director). (2021). Paper trails [Documentary]. Northlight Films.
Matching in-text citation: (Ferreira, 2021)
APA In-Text Citation
Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:
Parenthetical
(Director, Year)
Narrative
Director (Year) documents...
Key APA Formatting Rules
- Italicize the documentary title and add the [Film] bracket descriptor.
- List the director using the Director role in parentheses.
- Use the studio or distributor as the publisher.
- If a director is not credited, use the production company as the author.
- For one watched on a streaming platform, add the platform and URL at the end.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your documentary.
- Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the APA (7th edition) template shown above.
- Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
- Add to your reference list: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
- Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match APA requirements.
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