Some actors’ greatest performances are heard and not seen. March 15th is Voice-Over Day, a day dedicated to the artists that provide narration in entertainment. Voice-over is often used as a creative device, popular in genres like film noir, and is also common in advertising and educational documentaries. Many of our favorite documentaries would be incoherent without the captivating description of documentary voice actors. This list compiles some of the most beloved and best documentary narrators, and the qualities that make them a great voice-over artist.
Sir David Attenborough
Known for his extensive career as a television presenter at the BBC, David Attenborough is one of the most definitive voices in wildlife programming. His distinct accent and inquisitive tone can make small moments like the movement of a lizard or leaf falling to the ground seem magical. Attenborough is most well-known for presenting both the Life and Planet Earth series, a nine-part natural history documentary series that spanned decades. Attenborough’s work focuses on both the wonders of the natural word as well as human impact and environmental advocacy.
Check out our review of Life in the Undergrowth, part eight in the Life series.
If you want to learn more about David Attenborough's experiences, order A Life on Our Planet: My Witness Statement and a Vision for the Future.
Jacques Cousteau
Jacques Cousteau was one of the most passionate voice-over artists working in nature documentaries. A former naval officer, scientist, and diver, Cousteau was deeply passionate about sea exploration. This passion comes through in his voice-over style. With his recognizable French accent, Cousteau was methodical and truthful as well as emotional and uplifting. His most famous work as a documentary narrator is The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau, a documentary series compiling Cousteau’s marine research and exploration.
Check out our review of The Jacques Cousteau Odyssey
Get the complete series of The Jacques Cousteau Odyssey by clicking here.
Morgan Freeman
One of the most easily recognizable voice-over artists, Morgan Freeman has captivated audiences with his low register and distinct tone for decades. Freeman has done voice-over work for over thirty projects, adding an element of grandeur to each one. His voice is often referred to as the “voice of God” for its both commanding and soothing qualities. Many of the documentaries Freeman lends his voice to take on an epic tone, evident in nature documentaries like Born to be Wild and March of the Penguins.
Check out our review of March of the Penguins
To learn more about Morgan Freeman's early life and achievements, order Morgan Freeman: A Biography.
Werner Herzog
A filmmaker from the New German Cinema movement, Werner Herzog has directed thirty-one documentary features, often including his own narration. Herzog’s films ruminate on the human condition, demonstrated in films like Lo and Behold, which explores the existential impact of the internet. The profound subject matter of Herzog’s documentaries is complimented by his gravelly tone of voice, German accent, and dry wit. Herzog’s sense of humor is also evident in the cameo voice work he has done for several animated comedies, including The Simpsons and Rick and Morty.
Check out our review of Lo and Behold
To explore his work as an author, order his first novel The Twilight World.
Tilda Swinton
Tilda Swinton is characterized for her androgynous and ethereal persona, which is evident in the qualities of her voice. She frequently collaborates as a documentary narrator, on films like Dreams Rewired, an experimental documentary about technology throughout the 20th century. The other-worldly nature of Swinton's voice transports audiences to a different time or place.
Check out our review of Dreams Rewired
Get your copy of the Dreams Rewired DVD by clicking here.