How to Cite a Documentary in MLA (9th edition)
Learn how to cite documentary films and non-fiction films in MLA format (9th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.
MLA Works Cited Format
Here is the standard MLA format for citing a documentary in your Works Cited page:
Title of Documentary. Directed by First Last, Distributor, Year.
MLA Example for a Documentary
A complete MLA reference for a documentary, formatted by the official MLA CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:
Paper Trails. Documentary. Directed by Bruno Ferreira, Northlight Films, 2021.
Matching in-text citation: (Paper Trails)
MLA In-Text Citation
Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:
Parenthetical
(Title of Documentary)
Narrative
The documentary Title of Documentary examines...
Key MLA Formatting Rules
- Start with the documentary title in italics (it is the lead element).
- Add "Directed by" and the director's name as the first contributor.
- Name the distributor and the year of release after the director.
- Name the streaming platform (e.g. Netflix) as a supplemental element if watched online.
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 MLA (9th 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 Works Cited: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
- Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match MLA requirements.
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