What's Happening?
The reboot of the ABC series Race Around the World has been criticized for its lack of focus on the ethics of documentary filmmaking. The show, which originally aired in 1997, involves contestants creating short films in various countries. In the 2026
reboot, contestants have more autonomy with digital tools to shoot and edit their films. However, the series has been noted for emphasizing entertainment and technical skills over ethical considerations. The show briefly touched on ethics in a discussion about a film by contestant Kate McGuinness, but this was an exception rather than the norm. Critics argue that the show fails to address the power dynamics between filmmakers and participants, and the lack of participant aftercare.
Why It's Important?
The criticism of Race Around the World highlights ongoing concerns about ethics in documentary filmmaking, particularly the power imbalance between filmmakers and their subjects. This issue is significant as it raises questions about consent, representation, and the responsibilities of filmmakers to their participants. The lack of ethical discussion in a popular show like Race Around the World could influence emerging filmmakers to prioritize entertainment over ethical storytelling. This could have broader implications for the documentary industry, where ethical standards are not as clearly defined as in journalism. The show's approach may also affect public perception of documentary ethics, potentially undermining trust in the genre.
What's Next?
The criticism may prompt the producers of Race Around the World to incorporate more ethical discussions in future episodes or seasons. This could involve bringing in experts to guide contestants on ethical considerations or including more documentary filmmakers as judges. The broader documentary community may also use this opportunity to advocate for clearer ethical guidelines and standards. As the conversation around ethics in media continues to evolve, there may be increased pressure on content creators to prioritize ethical storytelling, potentially leading to industry-wide changes.
