The Greatest Auteurs in Film History
An auteur is a filmmaker or director whose personal, individual production style and creative flare gives his or her films a distinctive, unique feel. A director who falls in this category usually has complete control over the creative elements of producing a film. Since their influence on their films is so great, they are considered the author of the film, regardless of whether or not they actually wrote the script. If you’ve ever asked the question, “Who are the greatest auteurs in film history?” before, then you’ve definitely landed on the right page!
If you’re a movie buff, you’ve probably been a fan of at least a few of history’s greatest auteurs, such as Alfred Hitchcock or Federico Fellini. There are also modern auteurs, like David Lynch and Wes Anderson. Some of film’s famous auteur directors have produced history’s greatest movies, such as Fight Club, Pulp Fiction, Lost in Translation, and Moonrise Kingdom.
This list features history’s best auteurs, including Wes Craven, Peter Jackson, Quentin Tarantino, and Charlie Kaufman. Vote for your favorite auteur film directors below, and then check back to see if they topped the list!
- 1
Visionary director Stanley Kubrick is best known for his masterful storytelling and unique visual style. His career spanned various genres, from the satirical Dr. Strangelove to the science fiction classic 2001: A Space Odyssey. Kubrick's attention to detail and innovative techniques have firmly established him as one of the greatest auteurs in film history.
- Credits (Film): The Shining, A Clockwork Orange, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Full Metal Jacket, Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb
- 12001: A Space Odyssey1,037 Votes
- 2The Shining1,053 Votes
- 3Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb888 Votes
- 2
With a penchant for suspense and psychological thrills, Alfred Hitchcock skillfully crafted influential films such as Vertigo, Psycho, and Rear Window. Often referred to as the "Master of Suspense," Hitchcock's exceptional talent for narrative pacing and strong visual storytelling earned him widespread acclaim. His unmistakable style and iconic imagery continue to inspire generations of filmmakers.
- Credits (Film): Psycho, The Birds, Vertigo, North by Northwest, Rear Window
- 1Psycho1,394 Votes
- 2Rear Window1,481 Votes
- 3North by Northwest1,342 Votes
- 3
Hailing from Japan, Akira Kurosawa's innovative filmmaking techniques and expert storytelling have left indelible marks on the world of cinema. Renowned for classics such as Seven Samurai, Rashomon, and Yojimbo, Kurosawa masterfully blended Eastern and Western storytelling traditions. With a career spanning over five decades, he remains a titan in both Japanese and international cinema.
- Credits (Film): The Magnificent Seven, A Fistful of Dollars, Seven Samurai, Ran, Rashomon
- 4
A powerhouse in the realm of theater, radio, and film, Orson Welles' magnum opus, Citizen Kane, is often considered one of the best movies ever made. Welles' deep understanding of storytelling and innovative use of camera angles set him apart from his contemporaries. Though his career was marked by adversity, Welles' undeniable talent cemented his status as an influential auteur.
- Credits (Film): Citizen Kane, The Muppet Movie, The Third Man, Touch of Evil, A Man for All Seasons
- 1Citizen Kane184 Votes
- 2Touch of Evil129 Votes
- 3The Third Man159 Votes
- 5
Known for his mind-bending visuals and dreamlike storytelling, American filmmaker David Lynch has cultivated an idiosyncratic style that has captivated audiences worldwide. Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive, and the cult television series Twin Peaks exemplify Lynch's unique vision. His work often blurs the line between reality and fantasy, inviting viewers to fully immerse themselves in his avant-garde creations.
- Credits (Film): Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive, Eraserhead, The Elephant Man, Dune
- 1Dale Cooper846 Votes
- 2Audrey Horne750 Votes
- 3Deputy Hawk533 Votes
- 6
As the mastermind behind the epic Godfather trilogy and the visually stunning Apocalypse Now, Francis Ford Coppola's impact on Hollywood is undeniable. Bringing new depths to character-driven storytelling, Coppola expertly balances emotionally charged narratives with breathtaking visuals. His dedication to the craft and ability to create unforgettable cinematic experiences make him an auteur for the ages.
- Credits (Film): The Godfather, The Godfather Part II, Apocalypse Now, Patton, American Graffiti
