The craft of storytelling has always wielded immense power, influencing perceptions and shaping narratives. But what happens when journalism—a medium trusted globally for its fidelity to truth—becomes a stage for fabrication? Enter Inventing Truth: The Relotius Affair, a powerful documentary that peels back the layers of one of the journalism world’s most shocking scandals. Directed by Daniel Sager, the film dives into the extraordinary rise and fall of Claas Relotius, a celebrated journalist whose fabricated stories for Der Spiegel turned the global news industry on its head.
This documentary transcends mere recounting. It questions the responsibility of media in our post-truth era and shines a light on relevant overarching themes such as journalistic integrity, the role of bias, and the construction of “fake news.” Beyond the surface story, it’s a meticulously crafted exploration of ethics that resonates deeply with anyone curious about the interplay of media and reality.
Curious whether Inventing Truth deserves your attention? Here’s an in-depth review of its cinematic elements, thought-provoking themes, and overall impact.
A Cinematic Masterpiece in Documentary Storytelling
Exceptional Cinematography and Direction
Daniel Sager’s expert direction transforms what could have been a standard retelling of events into a gripping visual narrative. The cinematography holds a polished yet raw quality, echoing the inner conflict of truth versus deceit. Sager integrates archival footage seamlessly with dramatized reenactments, crafting a style that anchors the audience in the gravity of Relotius’s actions.
For instance, the sequences revisiting Fergus Falls—one of the towns grossly misrepresented in Relotius’s reporting—are particularly striking. The camera pans over Minnesota’s serene landscapes juxtaposed with heartfelt interviews from locals like Michele Anderson and Jake Krohn, who famously exposed the inaccuracies in Relotius’s article “In a Small Town.” The visual contrast creates a powerful emotional undercurrent, underscoring the consequences of misinformation on real communities.
Sager’s magic lies in his pacing. The documentary builds tension subtly. It starts with moments of awe—highlighting Relotius’s accolades as a “star reporter”—before unraveling into scenes of collective betrayal.
Documentary Film Styles That Elevate the Genre
The filmmakers employ a hybrid documentary style. While primarily observational, it occasionally blends interactive elements where subjects directly address the camera. This adds a layer of vulnerability, enabling viewers to connect intimately with the people who lived through the scandal.
Strategic close-ups of interviewees capture microexpressions—disbelief, frustration, resolve—making the audience feel like confidants rather than passive viewers. The multi-narrative structure mirrors journalists stitching together complex exposés, reinforcing the film’s journalistic aesthetic.
Journalism Under the Microscope
At its heart, Inventing Truth isn’t just about Claas Relotius—it’s about journalism itself. The film scrutinizes how this profession can teeter on the precipice of ethical collapse when sensationalism takes the wheel.
The “Fake News” Epidemic and Its Relevance
One of the documentary’s outstanding achievements lies in contextualizing Relotius’s actions within the broader conversation about “fake news.” Set against the backdrop of Trump-era America, where distrust in journalism was at its all-time high, Inventing Truth illustrates how even the most prestigious media outlets can falter.
Relotius’s eloquent but manufactured prose fed into stereotypes and biases, which Der Spiegel failed to vet thoroughly. The broader implication? Media consumers—journalists included—must consistently interrogate the narratives they consume.
This nuance makes the film an excellent case study for journalism students. It underscores the dangers of prioritizing gripping storytelling over integrity and highlights the systemic checks that should exist to prevent such failures.
A Salute to Whistleblowers
Michele Anderson and Jake Krohn, two residents of Fergus Falls, play key roles in exposing Relotius’s fabrications. Their tenacity highlights the importance of public vigilance toward the portrayal of communities, especially those often stereotyped in media.
The film amplifies Anderson’s poignant remark, “We have to be vigilant and check on what we read about communities.” Her cautionary tale extends beyond Fergus Falls, serving as a rallying cry for accountability in journalism globally.
Riveting Performances that Anchor the Themes
Authenticity in Storytelling
Although a documentary, Inventing Truth feels alive thanks to the genuine and poignant interviews from the subjects portrayed. Beyond Anderson and Krohn, we hear from journalists at Der Spiegel, whose candid accounts of betrayal and shame humanize the newsroom’s role in the scandal.
Their reflections explore ethical dilemmas many journalism students and professionals grapple with. How do newsroom hierarchies influence reporting? At what point does ambition eclipse ethical responsibility? These conversations linger long after the credits roll.
A Message That Resonates
Timely and Timeless
The beauty of Inventing Truth lies in its enduring message. It doesn’t preach or resolve the controversy tidily. Instead, it leaves viewers wrestling with questions about truth and accountability.
For journalists and media enthusiasts alike, this documentary serves as both inspiration and a cautionary tale. It highlights the enduring relevance of media literacy, critical thinking, and the relentless pursuit of truth in an era dominated by bias, algorithms, and echo chambers.
Why This Film Matters for Journalism and Cinematography Students
Students of journalism will find endless lessons in integrity and ethics, while cinematography students can dissect its innovative storytelling methods. Whether it’s the intricate use of lighting to contrast moods or the deliberate shifts in focus during key interviews, this documentary doubles as a masterclass in visual storytelling.
Furthermore, video production professionals can glean insights into editing styles that amplify emotional resonance—achieving the perfect balance between narration and imagery.
Final Thoughts
Inventing Truth: The Relotius Affair is not just a documentary; it’s a mirror to society’s relationship with media. Daniel Sager’s compelling direction draws viewers into an intricate web of deception, ethics, and accountability. With its stellar cinematography, heartbreaking interviews, and urgent message, this film cements itself as a must-watch for journalism enthusiasts and cinephiles alike.
What did you think about Relotius’s story and its broader implications on the media you consume? Share your thoughts with us on social media and join the conversation.
Anyone interested in journalism ethics, powerful storytelling, or innovative documentary styles will walk away with a newfound respect for the art of uncovering the truth.