I'm better suited to be a director, I think. I see myself as the general author. I hate the word 'auteur,' because it sounds so solitary when filmmaking is anything but solitary.
This quote delves into the complex identity and collaborative nature of filmmaking. The speaker perceives themselves primarily as a director, emphasizing their role as the 'general author'—a title that underscores leadership, vision, and creative responsibility in a collaborative process. The rejection of the term 'auteur' reflects a nuanced understanding of filmmaking as inherently a team effort rather than the work of a solitary genius. While the word 'auteur' suggests a singular artistic vision shaping a film, the speaker recognizes that filmmaking involves numerous voices, talents, and interventions behind the scenes, all contributing to the final product. This perspective aligns with the reality of filmmaking, which is a highly cooperative art form that relies on collaboration among writers, cinematographers, editors, actors, and many others. The statement also hints at the desire to be seen as the orchestrator rather than a lone genius, acknowledging that quality cinema emerges from collective effort. Furthermore, it challenges the romanticized notion of the solitary visionary director, instead valuing the ensemble cast and crew's creative contributions. This view fosters a more inclusive appreciation of what it truly means to create art in the cinematic realm, highlighting the importance of teamwork, shared vision, and mutual inspiration. Embracing this philosophy can lead to a more genuine recognition of the many roles that support and enhance the director's vision, ultimately enriching the storytelling process and the final film.
