Susan Zirinsky: A new chapter in documentary storytelling
A veteran’s new journey
Susan Zirinsky, a seasoned figure in TV news, has embarked on an exciting new path. Formerly the CBS News President and executive producer of “48 Hours,” Zirinsky has been at the helm of See It Now Studios since 2012. This Paramount Global production company focuses on documentaries and unscripted series, delving into true crime and significant historical events.
Embracing the streaming era
“The streaming world has given us a platform to really expand and deal with things in a much more profound way. And we have a wide portfolio,” Zirinsky explains. Her projects can be tailored for CBS, Paramount+, or even rival platforms. She shared these insights during a one-on-one chat at “Truth Seekers,” an annual conference spotlighting documentary production and unscripted programming.
A powerful new documentary
One of Zirinsky’s latest endeavors is “We Will Dance Again,” a documentary that examines the October 7th Hamas terror attack on the international Nova Music Festival. The film uses footage recorded on mobile devices by victims and eyewitness accounts to provide a raw and immersive experience. It will premiere in Los Angeles at Laemmle Encino for a week-long Oscar-qualifying run starting on August 23, with advanced event screenings on August 29 and September 1 in select theaters across the country. The documentary will launch exclusively on Paramount+ in the U.S. this fall.
Capturing the truth
“What happened on October 7th at 6:29 cannot be denied. We’re co-producers of this documentary, but we took this on because it is a moment in time. You are not allowed to deny that this happened,” says Zirinsky. “This will be a record, one of the records of history, but we understand the global reaction. But we are not telling that story. We are telling this story. And it’s immersive because for both the people’s cell phone videos and the director obtained through sources, not through the IDF, the incredible, uh, GoPros and body cams of the Hamas.”
Freedom in production
Zirinsky appreciates the creative freedom her new role affords her, as many of her projects are not bound by the rules and standards of broadcast TV. When asked if she can use more profanity, she responded with a laugh, “F– yes. Sometimes our lawyers will forget that they’re not doing a network show. And they’ll come back and they’ll say, you know, you have to mute that. You mute that. I said, no, we’re on Paramount+.”
A personal reflection
As a cinema and TV series enthusiast, I find Zirinsky’s journey inspiring. Her ability to adapt and thrive in the evolving media landscape is a testament to her resilience and creativity. The shift from traditional TV to streaming platforms has opened up new possibilities for storytelling, allowing for more in-depth and unfiltered narratives. “We Will Dance Again” is a prime example of this, offering a poignant and unvarnished look at a tragic event through the eyes of those who experienced it firsthand.
The impact of streaming on documentaries
The rise of streaming platforms has revolutionized the documentary genre. Filmmakers now have the freedom to explore complex and controversial topics without the constraints of traditional broadcast standards. This has led to a surge in high-quality, thought-provoking documentaries that challenge viewers and spark important conversations.
The future of unscripted content
Looking ahead, the future of unscripted content appears bright. With the continued growth of streaming services, there is a growing demand for diverse and engaging content. Producers like Zirinsky are well-positioned to meet this demand, leveraging their expertise and creativity to deliver compelling stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.
Final thoughts
Susan Zirinsky’s transition from traditional TV news to the dynamic world of streaming documentaries is a fascinating journey. Her work at See It Now Studios exemplifies the potential of unscripted content to inform, engage, and inspire. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see what new stories and perspectives emerge from this innovative and ever-changing field.
For more information on “We Will Dance Again,” you can watch the trailer and visit the information page.