Robert Flaherty was an American filmmaker, best known for his pioneering work in documentary cinema. Born in 1884, he is often referred to as the "father of documentary film." His most famous work, Nanook of the North, released in 1922, showcased the life of an Inuit family in the Arctic, blending storytelling with ethnographic observation. Flaherty's innovative techniques and emphasis on realism influenced many filmmakers. He often faced challenges in capturing authentic moments, leading him to create staged scenes to convey deeper truths. His contributions laid the groundwork for future documentaries, shaping the genre's evolution throughout the 20th century.