How to Cite a Documentary in Vancouver (ICMJE)
Learn how to cite documentary films and non-fiction films in Vancouver format (ICMJE). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.
Vancouver Reference List Format
Here is the standard Vancouver format for citing a documentary in your reference list:
Director AA, director. Title of documentary [documentary film]. Place: Distributor; Year.
Vancouver Example for a Documentary
A complete Vancouver reference for a documentary, formatted by the official Vancouver CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:
1. Paper trails. Northlight Films; 2021.
Matching in-text citation: (1)
Vancouver In-Text Citation
Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:
Parenthetical
(1)
Narrative
The documentary (1) reveals...
Key Vancouver Formatting Rules
- Use the director as author followed by the director designation.
- Add the [documentary film] designator after the title (not italicized).
- Give the place of distribution, distributor, and year.
- Number references in order of first appearance in the text.
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 Vancouver (ICMJE) 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 Vancouver requirements.
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