Close, empathetic, observational. People and their stories at the centre. Not voice-over journalism — storytelling through accompaniment. Emotional, not voyeuristic.
What this format covers
●Social issues from personal perspective
●Lived realities outside the mainstream
●Social justice, exclusion, integration
●Mental health, addiction, illness
●Generational conflict and life choices
●Making taboo subjects visible
What this format does NOT want
●Historical documentaries without present-day connection
●Science or technology formats
●Investigative exposés (that's Frontal)
●Political analysis or background reports
●Topics without identifiable protagonists
●Wildlife or nature films
Visual expectations
Observational camera, proximity to protagonists, documentary style. Minimal staging, authentic situations. Interviews in protagonists' own environments, not studio. Handheld aesthetic permitted.
Expected exposé structure
Logline
Protagonist(s) and their story
Social relevance
Narrative approach
Visual execution
Fit for slot
Example productions
37°: Wenn die Seele streikt
37°: Leben auf der Straße
37°: Schuften bis zum Umfallen
37°: Wenn Eltern zu viel trinken
37°: Albtraum Pflege
Protagonist-driven
Editorial notes
Protagonists must be secured before shoot — no pitch without concrete access. 28-minute format requires focused storytelling (max. 2–3 protagonists). Pre-research on protagonists' willingness essential. Typical shoot period: 3–6 months accompaniment.
Ready to pitch to ZDF?
The Pitch Doctor generates a format-compliant exposé tailored to ZDF 37 Grad's exact editorial expectations.