Question

Who is described as the "metteur en scene" in French film credits?

• A. The cinematographer
• B. The film editor
• C. The producer
• D. The director

Answer 1

Answer:

D. The director

Understanding the Role of the "Metteur en Scène" in Film

• Definition: In French film credits, the term "metteur en scène" literally translates to "stage setter" or "director." It is used to describe the person responsible for the overall artistic vision and staging of a film.
• Equivalence to Director: This term is essentially synonymous with "Director" in English-language cinema. The "metteur en scène" oversees all creative aspects of a film's production, from guiding actors' performances to making crucial decisions about cinematography, editing, and sound.
• Historical Context: The term gained prominence in French film theory, particularly during the auteur theory movement. Auteur theory emphasizes the director as the primary author of a film, imprinting their personal vision and style onto the work.
• Key Responsibilities: The "metteur en scène" is responsible for:
  • Interpreting the screenplay.
  • Translating the script into visual and auditory elements.
  • Guiding the actors' performances and blocking.
  • Collaborating with the cinematographer on shot composition and lighting.
  • Working with the editor to shape the final cut.
  • Ensuring a cohesive thematic and stylistic unity throughout the film.
• Distinction from other roles: While other crew members like the producer, screenwriter, and cinematographer play vital roles, the "metteur en scène" is the ultimate creative authority and the driving force behind the film's realization.
• Competitive Exam Relevance: Understanding French film terminology like "metteur en scène" is important for questions related to film studies, cinema history, and comparative literature, especially those that delve into European cinema or theoretical concepts like auteurism.