What is a common characteristic of a documentary film?

Documentary films are primarily defined by their focus on real-life subjects and events. This genre aims to document reality, providing audiences with insights into actual people, occurrences, and issues. Unlike fictional films, which create narrative plots and often involve scripted performances, documentaries present information and tell stories based on factual content.

The choice that highlights real-life subjects aligns with the essential purpose of documentaries, which is to inform, educate, or persuade viewers based on true accounts and perspectives. This focus on authenticity is what distinguishes documentary films from other genres that may prioritize storytelling through fictional narratives or creative interpretations. Other choices, such as fictional plots or animated characters, do not align with the foundational aspects of documentary filmmaking.