In feature films the director is God; in documentary films God is the director

In feature films the director is God; in documentary films God is the director

Alfred Hitchcock, often referred to as the "Master of Suspense," was a legendary filmmaker known for his innovative and influential work in the realm of feature films. His unique style and storytelling techniques have left a lasting impact on the world of cinema, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest directors of all time. However, when it comes to the distinction between feature films and documentary films, Hitchcock's approach to filmmaking may shed light on the statement, "In feature films the director is God; in documentary films God is the director."

In feature films, the director is often seen as the ultimate authority, with complete control over the creative vision and execution of the film. Hitchcock, known for his meticulous attention to detail and precise direction, certainly embodied this idea of the director as a god-like figure. His films were carefully crafted to evoke specific emotions and reactions from the audience, with every shot and edit serving a purpose in advancing the narrative. Hitchcock's ability to manipulate the audience's perception and create tension and suspense through his direction solidified his status as a master filmmaker in the world of feature films.

On the other hand, in documentary films, the director takes on a different role. Rather than being the all-powerful creator of a fictional world, the director of a documentary film is more of a facilitator, allowing the subjects and events being documented to speak for themselves. In this sense, the director acts as a conduit for the truth, capturing real-life moments and experiences without imposing their own narrative or agenda onto the material. This idea of the director as a vessel for truth and authenticity aligns with the notion of God being the director in documentary films, as the focus is on capturing reality as it unfolds rather than shaping it to fit a predetermined narrative.