I agree with those who imply that Godard was the experimentor, the risk-taker and the true independent artist. Truffaut was a more conventional and literary interpreter. A good filmkaker but not an integral part of his films like Godard is. Truffaut creates a work of art...and then sets it free. Godard also creates but leaves his self inextricably entwined within his films. Only a vibrant artist like Godard can truly influence others. [Interesting when one considers that only his 1959-67 films are enough to firmly establish his immortal reputaion.]