Theory of Auteur

Here is a short realisation that I ‘realised’ when learning about auteur theory

The question raised at the beginning of the reading is really quite interesting and i can relate to it a lot. “Did you say this film was good or good according to the auteur theory”. I have lengthy debates with many of my friends discussing why we think some films are better then others etc. One example was ‘The Great Gatsby’ (Baz Lurhman, 2013) where I thought it was quite good as apposed to my friend, who i believe i share similar taste in most things, completely disagreed. I think i was reviewing based on the Auteur theory as I really liked the extravagant sets and the cinematography whereas my friend was relating back the book and how it didn’t do it any justice. I think when someone learns about film theory, that they have no control of criticising in terms of the directors choice in a range of different things from camera shots to costumes.

I personally like the idea of criticising film in terms of the auteur theory similar to Sarris, whereby it helps separate film makers / directors and praises them for their individual aesthetics.