Generally speaking, yes, a video can be cited as a film, but it hinges on the context and the specific citation style you are using. The crucial factor is understanding how each citation style (MLA, APA, Chicago, etc.) defines a “film” and whether that definition encompasses the particular type of video you’re citing. This article, drawing on established citation guides and academic best practices, clarifies the nuances of citing videos and films, providing practical guidance and addressing common questions.
Distinguishing Video from Film: Understanding Citation Context
The term “film” traditionally refers to theatrical releases, documentaries, and productions intended for cinematic distribution. However, in the digital age, the lines have blurred. Videos now encompass a vast range of formats, from YouTube clips and streaming series episodes to instructional videos and recorded lectures. Consequently, citation styles have evolved to accommodate this diversity, albeit with varying degrees of specificity.
Essentially, the core principle remains consistent: provide enough information for your reader to locate the source you used. This includes the title, creator, year of release, and the platform where it’s hosted (e.g., YouTube, Vimeo, Netflix). The specific elements and their formatting will depend on the chosen citation style.
Navigating Common Citation Styles
MLA (Modern Language Association) Style
MLA generally treats videos as any other visual work. If a video functions like a film – possessing a narrative arc, directorial vision, and a clearly defined creator – it’s often cited similarly to a film. This means including elements like the director’s name, title of the video, production company (if applicable), year of release, and platform. For online videos, the URL is included, and the date of access might be required depending on the instructor or journal’s specific requirements. The MLA Handbook provides comprehensive examples for various types of video sources.
APA (American Psychological Association) Style
APA differentiates between films and online videos. Films are typically cited with the director (or directors) listed as the author(s), followed by the publication year in parentheses, the film’s title in italics, the label “Film” in square brackets, and the production company. Online videos, however, are treated differently. The uploader of the video is usually considered the author, followed by the date of publication, the video title in italics, the platform in square brackets (e.g., “Video”), and the URL.
Chicago Manual of Style
Chicago offers flexibility, adapting to the specific type of video. For feature films, the citation focuses on the director, title, and year. For online videos, it emphasizes the content creator or publisher, the title, the platform, and the URL. The Chicago Manual of Style provides a detailed guide, allowing for nuanced adjustments based on the video’s nature and purpose.
Key Elements for Citing Videos and Films
Regardless of the citation style, certain core elements are consistently required for accurate and reliable citation:
- Creator: The individual or entity responsible for the video. This could be a director, uploader, or production company.
- Title: The official title of the video or film.
- Platform: The website or service where the video is hosted (e.g., YouTube, Vimeo, Netflix).
- Date: The year of release or publication for the film/video. Include the specific day and month if available, especially for online content.
- URL: The web address where the video can be accessed (essential for online sources).
- Production Company (if applicable): The company responsible for producing the film.
Understanding Different Types of Videos
It’s important to acknowledge that videos come in diverse forms. Consider these examples when determining how to cite:
- Theatrical Films: Cite these similarly to traditional films, focusing on the director and production company.
- Documentaries: Treat these as films, highlighting the director and production company.
- YouTube Videos: Focus on the uploader as the author and include the YouTube platform.
- Streaming Series Episodes: Cite these as parts of a larger work, specifying the episode title and series title.
- Online Lectures: Cite these with the lecturer’s name as the author and specify the platform.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: What if the video doesn’t have a clear author or director?
If you can’t identify a specific author or director, use the organization or entity responsible for publishing the video as the author. If even that is unclear, consider whether the source is credible enough to use at all. If you proceed, use the title of the video in place of the author’s name in your citation.
FAQ 2: How do I cite a video that is embedded within another website?
Cite the video itself, not the website it’s embedded in. Focus on the platform where the video is originally hosted (e.g., YouTube, Vimeo).
FAQ 3: Should I include the timestamp if I’m citing a specific portion of a video?
Yes! Most citation styles recommend including the timestamp to indicate the specific point in the video you are referencing. This helps readers quickly locate the relevant information.
FAQ 4: What if a video is removed from its original platform after I cite it?
This is a common problem with online sources. While you can’t control the availability of the video, you can still cite it as you originally found it. The date of access is particularly important in this scenario, as it establishes when you viewed the content.
FAQ 5: How do I cite a video I found on a DVD?
Treat it like a film. Cite the director, film title, production company, and year of release. You might also include the DVD’s publisher and year of publication.
FAQ 6: How should I handle videos with multiple directors?
Most citation styles allow you to list multiple directors. Consult your chosen style guide for the specific formatting. If there are too many directors to list practically, you can use the abbreviation “et al.” (meaning “and others”) after the first director’s name.
FAQ 7: Is it necessary to include the video length in my citation?
Some citation styles require or recommend including the video length. Consult your chosen style guide for its specific guidelines. Including the length can be helpful for readers who want to gauge the commitment required to view the source.
FAQ 8: What is the difference between citing a film from a streaming service and citing a theatrical release?
The key difference is including the streaming service in your citation. For example, you might add “Netflix” or “Amazon Prime Video” as the platform. The core elements (director, title, year) remain the same.
FAQ 9: Can I cite a TikTok video?
Yes, you can cite a TikTok video. Treat the TikTok user as the author, include the video title (if there is one, or create a brief descriptive title), the platform (“TikTok”), and the URL.
FAQ 10: What if the video title is missing or unclear?
If the video lacks a clear title, create a brief descriptive title that accurately reflects the video’s content. Enclose this title in square brackets to indicate that it is your own creation.
FAQ 11: How do I cite a video that I created myself?
Cite yourself as the author. Provide the video title, platform, date, and URL (if applicable). You might also include a note indicating that you are the creator.
FAQ 12: My instructor has specific citation requirements that differ from standard style guides. What should I do?
Always follow your instructor’s specific instructions. Their guidelines take precedence over general style guide recommendations. Clarify any ambiguities with your instructor to ensure accurate and consistent citations.