It would be incorrect, albeit tempting, to say that documentary film rode the wave of “reality” obsession to its current level of popularity. If anything, documentary has succeeded, as both a critics’ darling and a profitmaker, despite the reality television craze. People enjoy reality shows because their own voyeurism happily confirms that the narrative arcs of scripted television are present in “real” life, as well. The documentary’s success as a genre, though, thrives on its…

( Editor’s Note: This preview of the SILVERDOCS film festival comes to us from Sommer Mathis, who has joined our staff to write about arts.) Just when you were certain that downtown Silver Spring will never be as hip as it wishes it was, SILVERDOCS: AFI/Discovery Channel Documentary Festival returns for its 3rd year to challenge your deeply held beliefs. This year’s opening night gala alone is enough to make any film geek perspire with…