Educational Program: Are Documentaries Reshaping the TV Industry?

Foreign journalists recently had the opportunity to learn, through the experience of the renowned producer and documentary filmmaker Robert Frye, how to successfully carry out audiovisual projects. The interview was also an opportunity for journalists to learn more about The Nuclear World Project, a project which so far has produced three documentaries: In Search of Resolution, The Nuclear Requiem, and In My Lifetime.

Frye is an Emmy Award winning producer, documentary filmmaker and has worked as network news program producer for over four decades.

His most recent film, In Search of Resolution, is the third in a series on the challenge of dealing with nuclear weapons. Robert Frye is also the director of In My Lifetime, released in 2012, and The Nuclear Requiem, from 2017.  Earlier in his career, Frye produced broadcasts at ABC News, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, and public television in the United States. He was executive producer of ABC World News Tonight with Peter Jennings, executive producer of Good Morning America, and the creator of World News This Morning. He founded his own independent production company in 1988.

This interview with Frye was conducted on March 29 by Patrícia Vasconcellos, a board member of The Association of Foreign Press Correspondents in the United States (AFPC-USA) who is the White House and State Department Correspondent for Brazilian Network SBT.

AFPC-USA is solely responsible for the content of this educational program. Below, readers will find a summary of some of the most important takeaways from the presentation.

ON WHAT INSPIRED HIM TO INVEST IN HIS OWN PROJECTS

• Frye explains that the practical necessity of establishing himself as an independent producer and director motivated him to pursue his own filmmaking projects. Having spent many years in network television, he desired the freedom to work on subjects that interested him.

• One such project that has consumed his attention for the past 15 years is focused on nuclear weapons. Frye's military background and past work on nuclear weapons inspired him to undertake this project, believing it is a story that needs to be understood by people worldwide. He emphasizes the universal impact of nuclear weapons, stating that any incident involving them would affect everyone globally.

• Through his films, Frye aims to educate and raise awareness about the dangers of nuclear weapons, highlighting the importance of collective action to address this issue. Despite the challenges posed by the limited number of countries possessing nuclear weapons, Frye remains hopeful for a future where nuclear weapons are no longer a threat. He emphasizes the significance of educating younger generations about this issue, as they will be affected by it in the future.

ON THE NATURE OF NUCLEAR THREATS

• Frye discusses the unpredictability and unknown consequences surrounding the threat of nuclear weapons today. He highlights the recent invasion of Ukraine by Russia, which occurred unexpectedly while he was working on his third project related to nuclear weapons. The statement issued by the original nuclear powers through the UN, declaring a commitment to avoid the use of nuclear weapons, was made just weeks before Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Frye emphasizes how this event underscored the vulnerability of nations to the potential use of nuclear weapons, especially in conflicts involving major powers like Russia.

• Frye points out the irony that Ukraine once possessed nuclear weapons but relinquished them at the end of the Cold War, leaving them vulnerable to aggression without nuclear protection. 

• Frye also discusses the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its impact on international dynamics, including political debates in Washington, D.C. He notes the refusal of Republican-controlled House representatives to provide funding to Ukraine for its defense efforts, illustrating the unexpected developments that have become central to his project on nuclear weapons.

ON THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATING SOCIETY ABOUT THE THREAT OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS

• Frye stresses the importance of educating society about the threat of nuclear weapons, particularly for younger generations who will be impacted by these issues in the future. He sees his role as a documentary producer not as persuading people, but rather informing them about the unfolding dynamics surrounding nuclear weapons. He observes: “The question then becomes, are people going to pay attention or do something about it?”

• Frye mentions the shifting dynamics and struggles in Washington, D.C., highlighting how nuclear weapons have become a relevant topic again due to events like the conflict in Ukraine. He believes in presenting information to the public and allowing them to make their own decisions and take action. 

• Frye suggests that individuals need to become their own editors, actively gathering information and critically evaluating it. He underscores the responsibility of the viewer, listener, and reader to engage with information deeply and make informed decisions based on accurate reporting. Overall, Frye stresses the importance of telling stories accurately and providing depth and definition to help the audience understand complex issues like nuclear weapons.

ON WHETHER HE BELIEVES THERE HAS BEEN A CLEAR EFFORT AT PEACE

• Frye acknowledges that there is a genuine desire for peace among millions of people worldwide. However, he highlights that the decision regarding peace ultimately lies with the countries possessing nuclear weapons. “The possessors of the weapons are in a position to make the decision whether peace will be allowed, if you will, in a way that is available to societies,” he says.

• Despite the widespread desire for peace, ongoing conflicts around the world pose significant challenges. Frye mentions conflicts in various regions, such as Gaza, Southeast Asia, and Haiti, emphasizing that conflicts are prevalent globally. He suggests that creating a space for the concept of peace amidst these conflicts is a complex challenge.

• Frye acknowledges the unpredictable nature of global events and the difficulties in predicting outcomes. He underscores the importance of continuing their work while navigating the uncertainties and challenges present in the world. 

ON WHAT MAKES HIS VIEWS ON NUCLEAR THREATS “UNIQUE”

• Frye contextualizes his views on nuclear threats within the shifting dynamics of global events. He mentions past circumstances, such as discussions between the United States and Russia, changes in Iran's situation, and North Korea's increased rocket testing. He notes the current unpredictability, attributed to ongoing conflicts globally, including political transitions in various countries and upcoming elections worldwide.

• Frye emphasizes the challenges faced by both journalists and documentary producers in capturing the zeitgeist and mood of the constantly shifting environment. He underscores the importance of understanding the multifaceted nature of global dynamics and how different nations and regions grapple with diverse issues.

ON WHETHER TODAY’S TELEVISION MARKETS OFFERS SPACE FOR THE TYPES OF DOCUMENTARIES HE MAKES

• Frye reflects on the evolving landscape of media consumption and the challenges of reaching audiences in today's diverse media environment. He compares the current situation to five decades ago when there were only three television networks in the United States, highlighting the proliferation of cable channels and digital platforms.

• Frye acknowledges the fragmentation of audiences, with people gravitating towards sources that align with their perspectives. He discusses the variety of communication channels available, including social media platforms like TikTok, noting that individuals consume content based on their preferences. Despite these challenges, Frye emphasizes the importance of producing content responsibly and distributing it through various channels, such as public television and educational formats.

• Frye also mentions the need for individuals to critically evaluate information and become their own editors to navigate the abundance of content available.

ON HOW TELEVISION EXPERIENCE COULD HELP DOCUMENTARY FILMMAKERS

• Frye emphasizes the continuity between television experience and documentary filmmaking, highlighting storytelling as the common thread. He suggests that regardless of the medium, whether it's television or documentary filmmaking, the essence of the work remains consistent. 

• Frye views storytelling as a foundational element, noting that the storytelling done today can serve as the basis for larger projects in the future. He likens the process to building a structure, where each piece of reporting contributes to the overall narrative.

ON HIS FUTURE PROJECTS

• Frye reflects on his extensive experience in storytelling, spanning over 62 years, expressing continued interest in the craft. He mentions ongoing involvement in the Nuclear World Project and collaboration with distributors to ensure the films reach educational and broadcast platforms. 

• Frye sees the importance of storytelling as a perpetual endeavor, noting that retirement isn't a consideration for him. He values the potential for storytelling to inspire dialogue and reflections on history, citing conversations with individuals who experienced World War II. Frye believes that storytelling, whether in filmmaking or reporting, constantly generates new ideas and opportunities for exploration. Ultimately, he reaffirms his passion for storytelling, indicating a commitment to continue contributing to the field.