In the realm of true-crime thrillers, the focus often lies on unraveling the mysteries surrounding crimes and the pursuit of justice. However, Paul Schrader’s “Auto Focus” takes a distinct and unconventional approach, as it delves into the mind of its enigmatic protagonist rather than following the typical crime-solving narrative. Despite being centered on the still unsolved murder of sitcom star Bob Crane, the film aims to explore the intricacies of its complex characters.
If you haven’t had the chance to watch “Auto Focus” yet, you’re in luck. You can now stream this unique cinematic experience on Amazon Prime Video, featuring Greg Kinnear in the lead role. The film is available for rental or purchase, providing you with a thought-provoking journey into the dark corridors of fame, addiction, and obsession. Unfortunately, the DVD version of the film has been out of stock for years, and a German Blu-ray release has yet to be announced.
What’s “Auto Focus” About?
Set in the 1960s, the success of the wartime sitcom “Hogan’s Heroes” catapults former radio DJ Bob Crane (Greg Kinnear) to newfound fame. As the star of the popular series, he indulges in the pleasures of life to the fullest. His friendship with video technician John Carpenter (Willem Dafoe) marks the beginning of Crane’s downward spiral.
Carpenter lures him into exploring his sexual fantasies, capturing them on video. Crane becomes increasingly entangled in the depths of his addiction, causing his personal and professional life to unravel after “Hogan’s Heroes” is canceled. His efforts to regain control of his life prove futile, and a falling-out with John Carpenter only adds to his troubles. On June 29, 1978, Bob Crane was found dead in his bed, his life ended by a fatal blow from a video tripod.
Not Your Typical True-Crime Thriller
While “Auto Focus” ultimately revolves around the unsolved murder of Bob Crane, Paul Schrader takes a unique and unconventional approach that diverges from the standard true-crime thriller formula. Instead of focusing solely on the crime itself, Schrader’s lens is directed toward a society that was given the means to zoom in on its own dark underbelly, thanks to the then-new technology of autofocus cameras.
In “Auto Focus,” the story is about men who are incessantly compelled to reaffirm their own virility. This exploration of fragile masculinity is a recurring theme in Schrader’s works, exemplified notably in “Taxi Driver.” For Bob and John, their obsession goes beyond merely watching and rewatching recordings of their sexual escapades; it becomes a form of virile reassurance. “Auto Focus” offers a glimpse into the intricacies of this toxic masculinity.
Greg Kinnear, known primarily for his comedic roles, delivers a stellar performance as Bob Crane, portraying him as a naive, unsuspecting individual who is oblivious to the fact that he is self-destructing. His life essentially ends long before his skull is shattered with a video tripod, and the film reflects this demise even in its visual style. The sunny, vibrant hues at the beginning of the film progressively give way to fading, desaturated colors, mirroring Crane’s descent into darkness. By the end, “Auto Focus” itself resembles a stark, unadorned home video, serving as a fitting tribute to a life that spiraled out of control.