Final answer:
D.W. Griffith differentiated his filmmaking style through the use of innovative camera techniques, close-ups, and sophisticated editing, which greatly contributed to the development of early cinema and its narrative complexity.
Step-by-step explanation:
D.W. Griffith made his filmmaking style different through pioneering techniques such as camera angles, close-ups, and the use of editing to weave complex stories. His approach took filmmaking out of the static realm of theater-like productions and established a cinematic language that was more dynamic and engaging.
Innovations in the early 20th century by pioneering directors like Griffith cannot be understated as they moved the camera out of the theater, introducing various cinematic techniques to enhance storytelling, which Griffith utilized masterfully in his works including 'Birth of a Nation' and 'Intolerance'. He capitalized on the fledgling Hollywood's attributes like its predictable sunshine and favorable climate, which distinguished the movies made there from those produced in other places.
Moreover, his narratively complex and technically sophisticated work set a new standard for movies and influenced countless filmmakers. While 'Birth of a Nation' is praised for its technical achievements, it's also important to acknowledge its controversial portrayal of race and its use of blackface, which has sparked significant criticism over the years. Griffith's work illustrates how art can influence and reflect societal views, and it delivers a complex legacy. His technical advances, however, laid the groundwork for the future of cinema, and his impact on the development of film language and vocabulary remains significant.