Andrew Sarris was an influential American film critic, known for his work in the mid-20th century. He played a significant role in popularizing the concept of the auteur theory, which emphasizes the director's creative vision in filmmaking. Sarris wrote for various publications, including the Village Voice, where he shared his insights on cinema. Born on October 31, 1928, Sarris contributed to the understanding of film as an art form. He authored several books, including "The American Cinema," which analyzed the works of notable directors. His critiques helped shape the landscape of film criticism and inspired many future critics and filmmakers.