Jean Rouch was a French filmmaker and anthropologist, known for his pioneering work in the field of ethnographic cinema. Born in 1917, he played a significant role in developing the documentary genre, blending fiction and reality to explore cultural themes. His films often focused on the lives and traditions of the people in West Africa, where he conducted extensive fieldwork. Rouch is best known for his innovative techniques, such as the use of participatory filmmaking, which involved engaging with subjects as active collaborators. His influential works, including Les Maîtres Fous and Chronique d'un été, have left a lasting impact on both anthropology and cinema, inspiring future generations of filmmakers and researchers.