Humanitarian Documentary: A Comparison Study between VR and Non-VR Productions

Abstract

Virtual Reality is broadly recognized as an “empathy machine”. This reputation is due to the feeling of ‘presence’ that it provides to users, which is the sensation of being bodily present in a space, even when that space is virtual. The possibility of complete immersion attracts many creators looking to induce empathy and awareness about the most diverse subjects. One of the first types of VR non-fiction productions to be released was in the morally sensitive humanitarian documentary genre. This research aims to explore how VR productions differ from non-VR productions with a focus on humanitarian communication. Rather than targeting mechanical aspects of VR technology, this article compares the visual and narrative storytelling characteristics in VR and non-VR media. First, humanitarian communication and its nuances are explained. Then, 360º video filming characteristics are analyzed, followed by a comparison table contrasting VR and non-VR non-fiction. After evaluating VR non-fiction empirical studies, a discussion is initiated over the betterment of VR non-fiction storytelling in a way that could help it generate more empathy, since many productions seem to purely rely on the technology as a production novelty, and end up lacking emotional depth and audience engagement through story.