Jeremy Allen White Reveals Who He Thinks Is the Greatest Director Ever
Jeremy Allen White has named Stanley Kubrick as the greatest director of all time, sharing his thoughts during a feature with GQ.
In the interview, White debated the topic with Lionel Boyce, who argued for Robert Altman. White passionately defended Kubrick, pointing to his wide influence on many of today’s most acclaimed filmmakers.
White explained how he defines a “great director,” saying, “Somebody who can make a film about really complex themes but make it digestible, and kind of simple for an audience, while also making it riveting.”
In his eyes, Kubrick meets that standard perfectly. He praised Kubrick’s background, noting that the director began as a photographer and documentary filmmaker, which helped him craft some of the most iconic imagery in cinema.
White also highlighted Kubrick’s innovative use of music, adding, “He was the first [director] to use music in a way that wasn’t just a suggestion to the audience of how they should feel or like a decorative piece for the film, but it was truly an accompaniment.”
White went on to marvel at the diversity of Kubrick’s work. He pointed out that the director successfully worked across many genres, saying, “They’re all over the place. Lolita, Barry Lyndon, Full Metal Jacket, Dr. Strangelove. It’s really all over the map. The Shining in horror, 2001 in sci-fi. It really crosses the spectrum of all different sorts of genres.”
This ability to excel in multiple genres, White argued, sets Kubrick apart from other filmmakers, making each project unique while still instantly recognizable as his work.
Kubrick’s critical legacy also supports White’s choice. Films like 2001: A Space Odyssey are widely considered masterpieces of science fiction, praised for their visual innovation, narrative depth, and philosophical themes. The Shining is a horror classic, blending psychological terror with striking cinematography and a haunting score.
Meanwhile, Dr. Strangelove is celebrated as one of the greatest political satires ever made. Critics often note that Kubrick’s meticulous attention to detail and careful control over every aspect of his films created a level of precision and artistry few directors have matched.
White also emphasized the personal impact Kubrick’s films have had on audiences and filmmakers alike. “His work resonates because it challenges you and makes you think. Every movie has layers,” he said. “You can watch it multiple times and always notice something new. That’s why I think he’s the best.”
By pointing to Kubrick’s range, technical mastery, and lasting influence, White made a compelling case for the director as the greatest of all time. His admiration shows how Kubrick’s films continue to inspire new generations of actors, directors, and cinephiles.
What do you think? Do you agree with Jeremy Allen White that Stanley Kubrick is the greatest director ever, or do you have another filmmaker in mind? Share your thoughts in the comments.
