Auteur Theory

Question 1

What is Auteur theory?

Answer 1

• The idea that the director is the author and primary creative force behind a movie. They shape every part of the film with a clear signature. Their distinctive characteristics should be visible across every aspect of the film

Question 2

Francois Truffaut- who what where

Answer 2

• Truffaut was a French Director who wrote the blueprint for auteur theory

• In 1954 he wrote in “Cahiers du Cinema” a French magazine that consisted of collections of film criticism by directors themselves

• He wrote a scathing piece on the state of French films and filmmakers, championing foreign directors such as Alfred Hitchcock. This piece gained fame and allowed Auteur theory to gain traction

Question 3

Andrew Sarris- who, what when?

Answer 3

• In 1962 Sarris wrote an academic essay titled “Notes on Auteur Theory”

• He offered a refined version of Truffauts theory:
1) Technical competence- films need an elementary flair!
2) Stylised approach to filmmaking
3) Interior meaning

Question 4

Pauline Kael- who what when?

Answer 4

• In 1963, Kael wrote an academic essay titled “Circles and squares “

• She stated that she felt Sarris was placing an overemphasis on the film’s director

• She wrote that obsessing over a director can easily lead to an overlooking of a films other qualities