Behind-the-Scenes Content: The Evolution of the Making-Of Documentary
In the world of filmmaking, behind-the-scenes (BTS)—also known as the "making-of," "the set," or "on the set"—is a documentary film that chronicles the production of a movie or television program. These productions are frequently referred to as EPK (electronic press kit) videos because they serve primarily as promotional tools. Whether released alongside a theatrical premiere or included as a bonus feature on DVD and Blu-ray, BTS content bridges the gap between the final polished product and the raw effort required to create it.
Key Facts
- Primary Purpose: Acts as a promotional tool (EPK) to increase viewership and sales.
- Historical Roots: Early examples date back to 1908 with Making Movie Pictures: A Day in the Vitagraph Studio.
- Modern Distribution: Now widely available via streaming platforms (e.g., Netflix's Tudum) and social media (YouTube, TikTok).
- Broad Application: While rooted in film, BTS is now used by brands for "day-in-the-life" and "meet the team" content to humanize businesses.
The History of the Making-Of
While the exact origin of the making-of documentary is debated, some historians point to the 1908 short Making Movie Pictures: A Day in the Vitagraph Studio as the first. Another pivotal early example is the 1920 featurette A Tour of the Tom Ince Studios, which was produced as a free publicity "gimmick" for exhibitors to provide an inside look at a silent movie studio.
During the 1930s, studios frequently used BTS footage to promote new technology and rising stars. However, this trend faced a decline in the 1950s due to programming changes resulting from the Paramount Decree (a landmark legal ruling affecting studio ownership). The format regained momentum in the 1960s as studios began leveraging television as a primary medium for advertising.
The advent of the DVD era transformed BTS content into a staple of home media. These shorter documentaries provided insight into the production process and gave necessary credit to the film crew. In some cases, filmmakers added a meta-layer of humor by including a "making of the making-of." Today, in the 2020s, streaming services and social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube have made this content more accessible than ever.
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The Purpose and Value of BTS Footage
Behind-the-scenes footage allows audiences to develop a deeper appreciation for the "movie magic" of the entertainment industry. It provides a platform for essential but often overlooked crew roles to be recognized and demonstrates how cutting-edge technology is used to elevate specific scenes.
From a commercial perspective, this extra footage serves as a powerful incentive for fans to purchase physical or digital copies of a film. Bloopers, for instance, humanize celebrity idols, while raw footage of a set before special effects are added highlights the skill of the actors and technicians. For streaming services, sharing BTS clips on social media is an effective way to capture new audiences and drive viewership.
Beyond the Movie Set: Alternative Applications
Although traditionally associated with cinema, the concept of behind-the-scenes has expanded to other industries. It is now commonly applied to concerts, home renovations, and various business ventures.
Modern companies use BTS content to humanize their brands, employing formats such as "day-in-the-life," "meet the team," and "before and after" videos. Even "Get Ready With Me" videos can function as BTS content when they reveal the inner workings of a professional event—such as an actress showing the makeup process before a scene. This transparency makes consumers more likely to trust and purchase the promoted products or services.
Notable Examples of Making-Of Content
Throughout cinema history, several making-of projects have become significant works in their own right. The following table summarizes some of the most prominent examples:
| BTS Title | Subject Film/Event |
|---|---|
| Burden of Dreams | Fitzcarraldo |
| Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker's Apocalypse | Apocalypse Now |
| Lost in La Mancha | The Man Who Killed Don Quixote |
| Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond | Man on the Moon |
| The End of an Era | Taylor Swift's The Eras Tour |
| That Moment: Magnolia Diary | Magnolia |
| How Did They Ever Make a Movie of Facebook? | The Social Network |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an EPK in filmmaking?
An EPK, or Electronic Press Kit, is a promotional video—often consisting of behind-the-scenes footage—used to market a film to the press and the public during or after its release.
Why did BTS content decline in the 1950s?
The production of behind-the-scenes material was restricted during the 1950s due to programming changes caused by the Paramount Decree.
How do streaming services use BTS content today?
Streaming services integrate BTS content directly into their platforms (such as Netflix's Tudum) and share clips on social media to attract new viewers and increase engagement.
Can BTS content be used for non-film businesses?
Yes. Many companies use "day-in-the-life" or "meet the team" videos to humanize their brand and build trust with consumers, making them more likely to buy their products.
What is the benefit of watching bloopers?
Bloopers allow fans to see a more relatable, human side of celebrity actors, which can strengthen the connection between the audience and the stars.