Meaning: Walter Salles, a Brazilian film director, has had a successful career in both documentary and fiction filmmaking. The quote "I did documentaries for maybe 10 years before I turned to fiction films" provides insight into Salles's transition from documentary filmmaking to fiction filmmaking and the impact of his experience in documentaries on his later work in fiction films.

Salles's background in documentaries likely played a significant role in shaping his approach to fiction filmmaking. Documentaries are rooted in reality, often focusing on real people and events, and require a filmmaker to capture and present the truth in a compelling and engaging manner. This emphasis on authenticity and a deep understanding of the subject matter can be valuable assets for a filmmaker transitioning to fiction storytelling.

During his years working on documentaries, Salles would have honed his skills in storytelling, visual communication, and the ability to connect with his subjects on a personal and emotional level. These skills are essential for any filmmaker, regardless of the genre they work in. The experience gained from working in documentaries likely provided Salles with a strong foundation in visual storytelling and the ability to convey powerful narratives through film.

Additionally, the transition from documentaries to fiction films may have allowed Salles to bring a sense of realism and authenticity to his fictional narratives. His background in documentaries may have influenced his approach to creating compelling and believable characters, as well as his ability to depict authentic settings and environments within his fiction films. This fusion of documentary-style authenticity with the imaginative freedom of fiction filmmaking could have contributed to the unique and impactful storytelling style for which Salles is known.

One notable example of Salles's success in fiction filmmaking is his critically acclaimed film "Central Station" (1998), which tells the story of a young boy and a jaded, older woman who embark on a journey across Brazil. The film received widespread praise for its authentic portrayal of the characters and the rich, immersive depiction of the Brazilian landscape. Salles's background in documentaries may have played a role in his ability to authentically capture the essence of the characters and the cultural landscape, elevating the film to a deeply resonant and emotionally impactful experience for audiences.

In conclusion, Walter Salles's quote sheds light on the transition from documentary to fiction filmmaking and the influence of his experience in documentaries on his later work in fiction films. His background in documentaries likely equipped him with valuable skills in storytelling, visual communication, and a deep understanding of authenticity, all of which likely contributed to the success and impact of his fiction films. Salles's ability to bring a sense of realism and authenticity to his fictional narratives demonstrates the enduring influence of his documentary roots on his work as a filmmaker.