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[W]hen you're shooting a doc, you're trying to class it up…

“[W]hen you're shooting a doc, you're trying to class it up because you can. You know, you're trying to make this feel like cinematic experience. And when you're doing fiction you're trying to do the opposite thing you're trying to take this very artificial experience this very artificial…” quote by John Hyams
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“[W]hen you're shooting a doc, you're trying to class it up because you can. You know, you're trying to make this feel like cinematic experience. And when you're doing fiction you're trying to do the opposite thing you're trying to take this very artificial experience this very artificial experience and make it feel real and visceral.”

John Hyams

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Documentary aims for cinematic polish, while fiction seeks raw realism, contrasting the desire for artificiality versus authenticity.

In simple terms: Documentaries are polished; fiction tries to feel real.

Key Takeaway

Balance style with truth in storytelling.

Themes

cinema authenticity artistic intent genre contrast

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

interview film theory

When to use this quote

  • film production
  • creative direction
  • audience expectation
  • artistic compromise

Key Concepts

documentary fiction visual storytelling realism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes a story feel real?
  • How does genre affect authenticity?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on style can dilute truth.

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