Mastering the Art of Citing Netflix Documentaries in MLA Format

Citing sources correctly is the cornerstone of academic integrity, and that includes those captivating documentaries you binge-watch on Netflix. In MLA format, citing a Netflix documentary involves providing key details that allow your reader to easily locate the film. Here’s the core structure:

Title of Documentary. Directed by Director’s Name, Netflix, Year Released.

Let’s delve deeper into each element and explore some frequently asked questions to ensure your citations are as polished as the documentaries themselves.

Decoding the MLA Netflix Citation: A Step-by-Step Guide

The basic structure above is your foundation, but let’s dissect each component for optimal clarity and accuracy.

The Title: More Than Just Words

Use the complete and official title of the documentary, exactly as it appears on Netflix. Follow standard title capitalization rules: capitalize the first word, the last word, and all principal words (nouns, pronouns, adjectives, verbs, and adverbs). Italicize the title. For example: My Octopus Teacher.

Director: The Guiding Hand

Credit the director as the primary creator of the documentary. Use “Directed by” followed by the director’s full name (First Name Last Name). If there are multiple directors, list them all, separated by commas. Example: Directed by James Reed and Pippa Ehrlich.

Netflix: The Streaming Giant

Always include Netflix as the platform where you accessed the documentary. This is crucial because it indicates the specific version you viewed, as content can sometimes differ across platforms.

Year Released: A Matter of Time

Provide the year the documentary was originally released, not the year you watched it. This information is typically available on Netflix itself, in the documentary’s details.

Putting it all together, a complete citation example looks like this:

My Octopus Teacher. Directed by James Reed and Pippa Ehrlich, Netflix, 2020.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Navigating the nuances of MLA citation can sometimes feel like deciphering an ancient scroll. Fear not! Here are 12 frequently asked questions to illuminate the path.

1. What if the documentary has no listed director?

While rare, if a director isn’t credited, use “Directed by Anonymous” or omit the director information entirely. If you omit, the title moves directly to the platform:

Icarus. Netflix, 2017.

2. How do I cite a specific episode of a documentary series?

If you’re citing a specific episode, include the episode title in quotation marks and the series title in italics. Add the episode number, if available.

“The Emerald Triangle.” Explained, season 1, episode 11, Netflix, 2018.

3. Should I include the URL?

The 9th edition of the MLA Handbook generally recommends omitting URLs unless specifically required by your instructor. The emphasis is on providing enough information for a reader to locate the source independently.

4. What if I’m citing a translated documentary?

Cite the original title followed by the translated title in brackets, if you know it. If you watched the dubbed or subtitled version, indicate that information.

Die Höhle der Löwen [Shark Tank]. Netflix, 2014. Subtitled version.

5. How do I cite a scene or quote from a documentary?

Since documentaries don’t have page numbers, you’ll need to provide a timestamp or a brief description of the scene to help your reader locate the information.

( My Octopus Teacher, 00:15:22-00:16:05).

6. What about documentaries not available on Netflix anymore?

If the documentary is no longer on Netflix but you accessed it there, still cite it as a Netflix documentary. The fact that it was once available on the platform is what matters for your citation.

7. What if the documentary is co-produced by Netflix?

If Netflix is listed as a production company, you should still cite Netflix as the platform where you accessed the documentary. The platform is key for replicability.

8. Can I use a citation generator?

While citation generators can be helpful tools, always double-check the generated citation against the MLA Handbook or a reliable MLA guide. Generators are prone to errors, and it’s your responsibility to ensure accuracy.

9. How do I cite a documentary that I watched offline after downloading it from Netflix?

You still cite it as a Netflix documentary. The method of viewing (online or offline) doesn’t change the citation format.

10. What if the director is also the producer?

You only need to list the director. The director is considered the primary creative force behind the documentary.

11. How do I handle documentaries with long titles?

Use the entire title, even if it’s lengthy. Abbreviating titles can lead to confusion. Adhere to capitalization rules strictly.

12. What’s the difference between citing in the Works Cited page versus in-text citations?

The Works Cited entry provides full bibliographic information. The in-text citation (also known as a parenthetical citation) is a brief reference within your text, typically including the title or director’s name and a timestamp if referencing a specific point. For example: (My Octopus Teacher). Or (Reed and Ehrlich).

Beyond the Basics: Polishing Your Citations

While the core citation format is straightforward, mastering MLA requires attention to detail. Here are some additional tips for crafting impeccable citations:

• Consistency is key: Maintain a consistent style throughout your entire paper.
• Consult the MLA Handbook: The MLA Handbook is the definitive guide to MLA style. Refer to it for any questions or ambiguities.
• Proofread carefully: Typos and errors can undermine your credibility.
• Use proper punctuation: Pay close attention to commas, periods, and italics.

By following these guidelines and addressing the common FAQs, you’ll be well-equipped to cite Netflix documentaries accurately and confidently in MLA format. Remember that proper citation is not just about avoiding plagiarism; it’s about giving credit to the creators whose work informs your own and enabling your readers to explore those sources further. Happy citing!