Watch The Auteur

The Auteur is a 2008 independent film that delves into the crazy world of Hollywood filmmaking. The film revolves around a veteran movie director, Arturo Domingo (Melik Malkasian), who is attempting to make a comeback and prove himself to the film industry once again. He is assisted by his loyal assistant, Death (Denise Chanterelle DuBois), who is equally eccentric and passionate about their film.

The plot focuses on Domingo's latest project, an erotic thriller titled "The Unreasonable Truth of Butterflies". During the filming process, Domingo is battling several issues, including his obsession with his lead actress, Julie (Katherine Flynn), who is also his former lover, his waning mental health, and the pushback he receives from the film's investors.

The relationship between Domingo and Death is both hilarious and poignant, with Death trying to keep the hectic world of filmmaking from taking a toll on Domingo's sanity. Despite his quirks and erratic behavior, Domingo's vision for the film is unwavering, and he goes to great lengths to ensure that it meets his artistic standards, including shooting a scene at a real-life snake farm.

In addition to Arturo and Death, the film is populated with an array of kooky characters, including a transgender stripper (Loren Hoskins) and a Hollywood executive who speaks exclusively in movie quotes, played by indie icon Lloyd Kaufman.

The film's humor is absurd and offbeat, which may not be to everyone's taste, but the sharp dialogue and impressive performances by the cast make it an engaging and entertaining watch. Malkasian's portrayal of Domingo is particularly impressive, as he manages to infuse the character with a sense of vulnerability and humanity despite his larger than life personality.

The Auteur tackles several themes, including the creative process, the dynamics of power within the film industry, and the ways in which art reflects and shapes society's values. While the film's satirical approach may not provide any clear answers, it does offer a unique perspective on these issues and invites the audience to reflect on their own experiences with art and entertainment.

Overall, The Auteur is a quirky and thought-provoking indie film that is well worth checking out for cinephiles who enjoy unconventional storytelling and offbeat humor. Though it may not be for everyone, those who appreciate the film's eccentric charm and clever observations will find plenty to admire and enjoy.

The Auteur is a 2008 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.