Which documentary genre is often perceived to offer transparency and honesty?

Documentary films are often perceived to offer transparency and honesty because they aim to present factual information about reality, events, people, or issues. This genre typically strives for authenticity by using real-life footage and interviews, which helps to create a sense of trust and credibility with the audience. Documentaries frequently tackle important social issues, historical events, or personal stories that can enhance viewers' understanding and provoke thoughtful reflection.

In contrast, crime dramas often utilize fictional narratives with dramatized elements, which can blur the lines between reality and storytelling. Reality TV, while based on real events or people, is often scripted or edited in ways that may manipulate perceptions for entertainment value. Mockumentaries, though humorous and satirical, are intentionally crafted to mimic a documentary style while presenting fictitious content. All these genres have their purposes and styles, but they lack the same level of perceived objectivity and truthfulness that people typically associate with documentary films.