The Greatest Movie Director of the Past: Jean Renoir's Timeless Impact

The timeless appeal of film directors has spanned generations, with legends like Ozu and Hitchcock leaving indelible marks on cinema. However, beyond their illustrious careers, one director stands out for his unparalleled range and enduring influence: Jean Renoir. His magnum opus, Rules of the Game, remains a benchmark in the evolution of cinema.

Why Renoir Stands Out

From my personal standpoint, Jean Renoir is the greatest movie director of the past primarily because Rules of the Game is my idea of the greatest film ever made. Despite being a 10-time rewatch, every viewing reveals new layers of brilliance. The film’s depictions of life and compassion for human frailty are so profound that it can captivate even without sound. Renowned American film writer and director, Paul Schrader, described it succinctly: “If one movie can stand for all others, represent all that film can be, that film is The Rules of the Game.”

While directors like Bergman and Ozu have their own masterpieces, the versatility and depth of Renoir’s work make him a unique contender. Even Bergman, despite his masterful films, does not have a defining masterpiece like the uncredited effort he made in Fanny and Alexander; I lean more towards enjoying Persona than Fanny and Alexander.

Underrated Masterpieces of Jean Renoir

Despite the staying power of Rules of the Game, Renoir’s films are not just one-dimensional. His filmography features several critically acclaimed works that may not receive the same level of attention but are highly unique and varied:

La Chienne (1931)

La Chienne is a remarkable film that is often overshadowed by its later remakes. Not only is the original version a stand-alone masterpiece, but its use of natural outdoor sound during that era is extraordinary. Appreciated today for its raw realness, it stands as a testament to Renoir's command of naturalism in cinema.

La Nuit du Carrefour (1932)

La Nuit du Carrefour is an early film noir with a twist: it explores sexuality in a way that is both charged and profoundly affecting. This film, while not as widely recognized as his others, is undeniably a powerful entry in Renoir’s filmography and will likely garner more recognition over time.

The Crime of Monsieur Lange (1936)

The Crime of Monsieur Lange is a highly cherished film that I hold in the highest regard. To me, it represents the spirit of what the New Wave was striving for: a funny, earthy, and inventive direction that challenges conventional storytelling. Fran?ois Truffaut, the celebrated director who influenced the French New Wave, wrote about it, "Of all Renoir’s films, Monsieur Lange is the most spontaneous, the richest in miracles of camera work, the most full of pure beauty and truth. In short, it is a film touched by divine grace."

Other Notable Works

While there are many other exceptional films in Renoir’s catalogue, a notable mention is La Bête Humaine, which requires a good print to fully appreciate. Other personal favorites include The Southerner and French Cancan.

Comparing to Other Legends

While Jean Renoir outshines many contemporaries, Howard Hawks is an iconic figure in his own right. Hawks created some of the most remarkable works in cinema, such as Scarface and The Big Sleep, and His Girl Friday and Bringing Up Baby. His films, including Red River and Rio Bravo, are masterpieces in their own right, showcasing his versatility.

In conclusion, Jean Renoir emerges as the greatest director of the past due to his unparalleled versatility, beyond masterpieces like Rules of the Game. His lesser-known works, such as La Chienne, La Nuit du Carrefour, and The Crime of Monsieur Lange, offer unique insights into his genius, cementing his place as a timeless figure in cinema.