Final Film Critique: If Beale Street Could Talk

Auteur Theory

Filmmakers often get recognized for their work of passion, but few get to the auteur class. To be precise, few meet the criteria to be called an auteur; they do not or rather not stand out as the authors of their direct films. Some are outstanding in their work that they get noticed and win awards because of their poetic, empathetic, and realistic results. In this study, we discuss Barry Jenkins, who has been an extraordinary filmmaker with a proven track record that does not go unnoticed. Barry Jenkin's previous work, 'Moonlight', shows his skills in mastering that art of directing when he catches the audience's attention with poetry creativity in this production.

Auteur Theory

In his literary work in 1954, Director Francois Truffaut came up with the auteur theory, which refers to or defines those film directors who are outstanding in their work. They stand out simply because they do more than just direct; they participate in the film by writing, acting, and having a personal vision for the film (Francois, 1954). A director is fully engaged in his film production and has a clear vision and theme reflection for a reality that qualifies to be the film's author. Just as the French say, an 'auteur.'

Through this criterion, Barry Jenkins has been picked as one of the outstanding Directors in the film-making industry since he has done a lot of directing that showcases his true self and brings the audience close to his films' characters. Jenkins' work in 'Moonlight' was poetic in a way that the film was not necessarily considered a movie by its critics (Alisson, 2017), through whom it managed to get nominated for the Oscars. The whole character of Chiron in the film, surrounded by so many mysterious life occurrences, sounds creative and choreographed but at the same time possible. This qualifies the film as a poetic work, reflecting the Director's creative nature.

Jenkins was also highly creative in his drama production, 'If Beale Street Could Talk,' and his choice of characters and the film's plot showcases the reality of life despite not happening exactly in his context. He tries to show the world how life is cruel for blacks and gives it a nice warm ending when the lovers have it their way. Such creativity is a trademark and allows him to own the work.

First, it must be noted that Jenkins qualifies as an auteur. Several of his films do not fail to capture the moments of revelation. He does not miss anything and ensures that everything is entirely in place. In the movie he has directed and authored, there is always a trick played where the audience must access the plot's hidden meaning. Characters are usually keenly selected for a purpose; to represent a required feature or phenomenon. Jenkins is keen on passing his information to the general public, and that his where the unique state in his plot always turns out to be outstanding.

For example, the plot he chose to use on the 'Moonlight' is one that represents the cruelty of life to the select races, who are at the same time surrounded by mysterious events. The plot of a black boy growing up in Miami's housing projects with parents who have daily encounters with drugs is one that attracts a lot of attention. The audience wants to find out what happens to the innocent kid. Events change when they come to find out that the kid is also gay. Being black and gay with parents who are either selling or using drugs is the worst nightmare-the whole plot and how events unravel showcases the Director's creativity.

Barry Jenkins stands out from his peers as his films' application of themes, technique, and narrations of stories in his film are unique. The approach he gives to his narratives is extraordinary. He makes sure the audience does not overlook the story and message behind the pictures.

Jenkins engages the viewers through his close-up shots, which help with empathy. All emotions are displayed correctly, and there is no chance a scene can be missed. The 'Moonlight' shot that won the Oscars award was a close-up shot, and the theme was also perfectly captured. One can tell the mood from the picture. It speaks for itself without requiring a third-party translation. The unique visual effects on his films ensure that the scenes' surrounding is well captured and recognized (Mitch, 2004).

The choice of themes Jenkins uses in his films gets the audience involved. The somber moods, the worried nature of characters is noticed. Unlike other film Directors, Jenkins can tell the story using only the video without necessarily needing the sound or audio for that matter. The theme of the production can be said just by pure observation.

Auteur Theory

In conclusion, in film production, directing is more than just giving directions; it is more involving than directors are aware of. It is an art that must be natural, and for sure, Barry Jenkins has acknowledged that in his roles in production go beyond just sitting in the Director's chair. He gets involved, and his efforts are reflected through his exquisite films, which have and are still winning awards across the industry.

Jenkins has what it takes to engage the audience in his films, unlike other Directors; Barry has mastered the art and is ranked as an auteur in the industry. His creativity and techniques apply in his production are unlike his peers; therefore, he has become successful in his career and can be utilized as a mentor to others.

References

Rabiger, M., & Hurbis-Cherrier, M. (2013). Directing: Film techniques and aesthetics. Waltham,

MA: Focal Press.