Zero Degree Cinema Documenting the Syrian Uprising, and the Utopia of Cinema

Abstract

This research investigates “Zero Degree Cinema” in the 2011 Syrian uprising, focusing on how low-resolution imagery, handheld filming, and ambient sound contribute to the formation of a distinctive audiovisual identity in documentary cinema. By employing theoretical frameworks from Roland Barthes, John Ellis, and Hito Steyerl, the study contextualizes Syrian protest videos within the broader landscape of documentary film movements. It reveals the impact of spontaneous, citizen-led documentation in conflict zones and examines how
experiences of fear and mortality inform new artistic characteristics in this genre. The findings highlight the innovative use of technology and aesthetics in capturing the immediacy of the uprising, suggesting that these elements not only redefine documentary practices but also challenge conventional narratives surrounding conflict and representation. Ultimately, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of how audiovisual materials can reflect and influence social movements, particularly in contexts marked by crisis and upheaval.