9/13/21: An Interview with Ken Burns | SmartLess w/ Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, Will Arnett

Narrator Choice

Ken Burns shares his unique approach to selecting narrators for his documentaries, emphasizing the importance of understanding the story over having a traditional narrator's voice. He recalls the initial skepticism he faced when choosing David McCullough, a historian, as a narrator because McCullough's strength lay in his deep knowledge of American history rather than his vocal credentials 1. Burns believes that the narrator's connection to the story is crucial, as demonstrated by his choice of Ossie Davis2.

He knows this story cold. He knows American history.

--- Ken Burns

This approach has led to collaborations with various talented individuals, including Peter CoyoteKeith David3.

   

Guiding Narration

Burns also discusses his methods for guiding narrators to achieve the desired delivery and tone in his films. He often breaks down traditional announcer styles to create a more intimate storytelling experience, as seen with John Chancellor4. Burns emphasizes the importance of narrators speaking as if they are telling stories to their grandchildren, ensuring the audience leans in to listen.

You're just talking to your grandchildren. Just make sure they lean in.

--- Ken Burns

This technique helps narrators convey the emotional truth of the story, a concept Burns values highly, contrasting with other filmmakers like Werner Herzog5.