The auteur theory is a film criticism concept that suggests a director is the primary creative force behind a movie. It posits that a director's personal style and vision can be seen throughout their body of work, making them the "author" of the film. This theory emphasizes the importance of individual expression in filmmaking. Originating in the 1950s with critics from the Cahiers du Cinéma magazine, the theory highlights directors like Alfred Hitchcock and François Truffaut as key examples. By analyzing recurring themes, visual styles, and narrative techniques, critics argue that a director's unique voice shapes the overall film experience.