What characterizes a "talking head" documentary?

A "talking head" documentary is characterized primarily by interviews with subjects who speak directly to the camera. This format allows the audience to engage with the personal insights and narratives of the interviewees, creating an intimate connection and emphasizing their perspectives. This style focuses on the human experience and often includes real-life people sharing their thoughts, experiences, or opinions related to the documentary's theme or subject.

The other options represent different styles of storytelling that do not align with the core characteristics of a "talking head" documentary. For instance, animated storytelling typically involves visual animation rather than direct interviews, while special effects demonstrations rely on visual spectacle rather than personal narratives. Highly scripted narratives with actors focus on performance and dramatization rather than genuine interviews, which distinguishes them from the format of a talking head documentary.