What Happened on the Moon? An Investigation Into Apollo is a compelling documentary from 2000, produced by First Light and directed by David S. Percy. This critical look at the historic Apollo Moon landings delves into both the technical aspects and the photographic evidence surrounding the event. Gripping, insightful, and controversy-inducing, the film takes its subject matter head-on, providing a foundation for sceptics and enthusiasts alike to explore the intricacies of the Apollo missions.

The documentary features a host of interviewees, including the late, distinguished actor Ronnie Stronge, who lends his distinguished voice, adding prestige to the film. This is paired with the insights of H.J.P. Arnold, a renowned space and photography specialist, Mary Bennett, an acclaimed researcher, and Ian Crawford, a professor of planetary science and astrobiology. These formidable personalities bring to the forefront the questions and doubts surrounding the moon landings.

What Happened on the Moon? utilizes persuasive techniques of investigation including detailed comparisons and analyses of NASA's photographs taken both by astronauts and automated cameras. It uncovers anomalies and inconsistencies that are fuel to the theory that the moon landing may not have occurred as reported. It rigorously delves into the principle of radiation, shadows and reflections, the flag fluttering in the vacuum of space, and the technical issues that could have arisen in the lunar module's landing and take-off, among other arguments.

The film also explores the geopolitical context of that era, acknowledging the US-USSR space race and the colossal pressure on the United States to achieve lunar landing. This context aids in framing doubts pertaining to whether the landing was a reality or an elaborate artifice by the United States' Government in their bid to assert dominance during the Cold War period.

David S. Percy, known for his in-depth exploration of alternative views on popular scientific and historical subjects, employs his signature blend of information and suggestion to stimulate viewers' curiosity. The documentary is stark and precise, rarely shying away from the granular details. The format is open-ended, designed to provoke questions rather than necessarily providing definitive answers. After all, as the film agrees, the question isn't so much ‘did we go to the moon?’ but rather ‘how did we go to the moon under the circumstances prevalent at the time?’

This documentary, received with mixed emotions, has been hailed as thought-provoking and meticulously detailed by some, while others have criticised it for giving undue weight to conspiracy theories. Irrespective of peoples' stance on the subject matter, there's no denying the impact the film has had in prompting debate around the Apollo missions.

One of the primary strengths of What happened on the Moon? lies in its usage of high-quality film and photographic materials. Thanks to Percy's propensity for detail and precision, viewers are privy to vivid, close-up examinations of the mission's imagery, which is vital for the skeptic or the curious spectator.

The narrative is not sensationalist or blatant in its agenda. Instead, it maintains a measured, neutral tone, allowing audiences to form their own conclusions based on the evidence presented. This approach furthers the documentary's stand as an investigation rather than a proclamation, fostering space for dialogue and debate.

In conclusion, What Happened on the Moon? An Investigation Into Apollo is a comprehensive documentary that explores the inconsistencies and questions surrounding the Apollo moon landing. With detailed scrutiny of photographic evidence, expert insights, and unvarnished visual presentations, this film invites introspection and investigation into one of humanity's most renowned achievements. Whether one is a firm believer in the moon landing or a sceptic, this documentary deserves your attention for its commitment to questioning accepted narratives and prompting intellectual curiosity.