Meaning: The quote by Ben Edwards, an entertainer, emphasizes the unique power and appeal of documentary filmmaking in its ability to alter and play with the viewer's relationship to and understanding of the subject matter. Documentaries have been a significant part of film history, offering a distinct form of storytelling that often provides a deeper insight into real-life events, people, and issues. In this analysis, we will explore the ways in which documentaries have the potential to engage, challenge, and transform the viewers' perspectives, and how they have become an influential medium for conveying important stories and messages.

Documentaries have the ability to alter the way viewers relate to the subject by presenting real-life situations, experiences, and individuals in a manner that is often more intimate and unfiltered than traditional fictional narratives. Unlike scripted films, documentaries often feature real people, genuine emotions, and authentic settings, which can create a sense of immediacy and authenticity for the audience. This unmediated approach to storytelling allows viewers to form a direct connection with the subject matter, leading to a more personal and immersive viewing experience. By presenting the realities of the world in a raw and unembellished form, documentaries have the power to evoke empathy, understanding, and a sense of shared humanity among the audience.

Furthermore, documentaries play with the way viewers understand the subject by presenting diverse perspectives, challenging preconceived notions, and shedding light on lesser-known aspects of a given topic. Through in-depth research, interviews, and extensive footage, documentaries have the capacity to provide a comprehensive and multi-faceted exploration of complex issues, historical events, and societal phenomena. This multifaceted approach to storytelling encourages viewers to critically engage with the subject matter, fostering a deeper understanding of the nuances, contradictions, and human experiences that shape the narratives presented. As a result, documentaries have the ability to expand the viewers' knowledge, provoke thoughtful reflection, and inspire a reevaluation of their own beliefs and attitudes.

The appeal of documentaries also lies in their capacity to spark meaningful conversations, raise awareness, and catalyze social change. By addressing pressing social, political, and environmental issues, documentaries serve as a powerful platform for advocacy, education, and activism. Through compelling storytelling and visual evidence, documentaries have the potential to mobilize individuals and communities to take action, challenge injustices, and contribute to positive transformation in the world. Whether it is exposing human rights abuses, highlighting environmental degradation, or amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, documentaries have the ability to amplify important narratives and galvanize audiences to become agents of change.

In conclusion, Ben Edwards' quote aptly captures the transformative potential of documentary filmmaking in shaping the way viewers engage with and comprehend the world around them. Through its unfiltered portrayal of reality, diverse perspectives, and potential for social impact, documentaries have become a dynamic and influential medium for storytelling. By altering and playing with the viewer's relationship to and understanding of the subject, documentaries not only entertain but also inform, challenge, and inspire, making them a vital and enduring form of visual storytelling.