Meaning: This quote by Michael Apted, a renowned director and filmmaker, sheds light on the distinction between documentaries and fictional movies. In his view, creating documentaries allows for a greater sense of personal expression and ownership compared to traditional movies. This assertion opens up a fascinating discussion about the unique qualities of documentaries and the creative process involved in their production.

Documentaries are a form of non-fiction filmmaking that aims to capture real-life events, people, and issues. They often present a factual account of a subject, whether it be historical, social, political, or environmental. Unlike traditional fictional movies, documentaries rely on real-life content, interviews, archival footage, and other non-scripted elements to convey their message. This inherent focus on reality and truth is what sets documentaries apart from fictional films and contributes to the sense of personal involvement that Apted alludes to in his quote.

When Apted mentions "creating something" and "my own soul," he is likely referring to the deeply personal nature of documentary filmmaking. Directors and filmmakers involved in creating documentaries often immerse themselves in their subjects, conducting extensive research, interviews, and on-location filming to bring the story to life. This level of involvement can lead to a profound connection between the filmmaker and the subject matter, resulting in a more personal and authentic portrayal of the topic at hand.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the role of authorship in filmmaking. In the world of fictional movies, directors often work with screenwriters and other creative collaborators to bring a script to life. While they undoubtedly bring their own vision and style to the project, the script itself is a separate entity created by someone else. In contrast, documentaries are often driven by the filmmaker's personal vision and storytelling approach. The director takes on a more active role in shaping the narrative, often serving as the driving force behind the entire project from conception to completion.

Apted's statement also draws attention to the emotional and artistic investment that filmmakers put into their documentaries. In many cases, documentary subjects are deeply meaningful and impactful, tackling important social issues, historical events, or personal stories. As such, the process of creating a documentary can be deeply emotional and transformative for the filmmaker, as they seek to authentically represent the experiences of their subjects and communicate their own perspective on the matter.

Moreover, documentaries often provide a platform for filmmakers to explore their own beliefs, passions, and convictions. Whether it's shedding light on environmental conservation, human rights, or cultural heritage, documentaries allow directors to address issues that resonate with them on a personal level. This personal investment can infuse the documentary with a sense of authenticity and purpose, creating a powerful connection between the filmmaker and the audience.

In conclusion, Michael Apted's quote encapsulates the unique nature of documentary filmmaking and the deeply personal and creative process behind it. By emphasizing the role of personal expression, authorship, and emotional investment, Apted highlights the distinct qualities that set documentaries apart from traditional movies. Documentaries offer filmmakers a platform to delve into subjects that resonate with them personally, infusing their work with a sense of authenticity and soul that may be different from the experience of creating fictional films.