In auteur theory, who is considered the central creative force behind a film?

In auteur theory, the director is recognized as the central creative force behind a film. This theory emerged in the 1950s and emphasizes the personal vision and artistic style of the director, suggesting that the director's unique perspective shapes the narrative, visual aesthetics, and overall tone of the movie. The director's vision is thought to permeate every aspect of the film, from the script to casting decisions and the final edit, establishing a cohesive and distinctive cinematic experience.

This perspective stems from the belief that a director’s body of work reflects their personal style, themes, and concerns, much like an author's writing. Renowned directors such as Alfred Hitchcock, François Truffaut, and Akira Kurosawa are often cited as exemplars of this theory, as their individual styles and thematic preoccupations are evident across their films.

While other roles such as screenwriters, editors, and producers are crucial to the filmmaking process, they typically serve the director's vision rather than leading the creative direction of the film. Therefore, the director holds a central position in auteur theory, as the primary architect of the film's artistic expression.