Meaning: This quote by Maximilian Schell, the renowned Austrian actor, offers a profound insight into the nature of documentaries and the storytelling aspect inherent in them. Schell's words suggest that the boundary between a documentary and a narrative story can often blur, especially when the subject matter is as deeply personal and impactful as the life of an individual. In this quote, Schell reflects on the documentary "Marlene," which he directed and which focuses on the life of the legendary actress and singer Marlene Dietrich.

Schell's assertion that "I don't think it's a real documentary" raises an interesting point about the nature of documentaries. While documentaries are typically associated with presenting factual information and real-life events, they are also inherently shaped by the perspectives and narratives of those involved in their creation. In the case of "Marlene," Schell seems to be suggesting that the film goes beyond a straightforward factual account of Dietrich's life and instead delves into the deeper, more subjective elements of her experiences.

By describing the film as "more a story of her life," Schell emphasizes the narrative quality of the documentary. This aligns with the idea that documentaries often function as storytelling vehicles, weaving together real-life events, personal experiences, and broader social and historical contexts to create a compelling and impactful narrative. In the case of "Marlene," Schell appears to view the documentary as a means of conveying the essence of Dietrich's life, not just as a series of factual events, but as a cohesive and emotionally resonant story of her journey.

Schell's further description of the documentary as "a story of survival" and "the story of the time in which she lived" underscores the multifaceted nature of the film's narrative. It suggests that "Marlene" delves into the complexities of Dietrich's life, including her resilience in the face of challenges, her experiences within the historical context of her era, and the broader societal forces that shaped her trajectory. This aligns with the idea that documentaries often serve as historical and cultural records, capturing not only individual stories but also the larger forces and dynamics at play in a particular time and place.

Additionally, Schell's characterization of the documentary as "the story of success and failure" highlights the nuanced portrayal of Dietrich's life. Rather than presenting a simplistic, idealized depiction of her achievements, "Marlene" seems to explore the highs and lows of her journey, acknowledging the challenges and setbacks alongside the moments of triumph. This approach reflects the complexity of human experience and aligns with the idea that documentaries can offer a more nuanced and authentic portrayal of their subjects' lives.

In conclusion, Maximilian Schell's quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of documentaries as storytelling vehicles, particularly when it comes to deeply personal and impactful subjects. By emphasizing the narrative elements and the multi-dimensional portrayal of Marlene Dietrich's life in the documentary "Marlene," Schell's words shed light on the inherent complexity and richness of the documentary form. This quote invites us to consider the profound storytelling potential of documentaries and the ways in which they can capture the essence of a person's life, going beyond mere factual accounts to convey the deeper emotional and historical dimensions of their experiences.