Jean Renoir (1894-1979) was one of the most influential directors in the history of French cinema, son of the celebrated painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir.

Although primarily known as a filmmaker, Renoir occasionally played small roles in his own films, such as that of Octave in his masterpiece *The Rules of the Game* (1939).

Among his most celebrated works are masterpieces of poetic realism such as *The Grand Illusion* (1937), a profound social and war analysis, and the satirical *The Rules of the Game*, a sharp critique of the French bourgeoisie. Other important films include *A Day in the Country* (1936) and *French Cancan* (1955).

His style is characterized by a deep humanism, an attention to the complexity of characters and human relationships, often exploring themes of class, freedom, and nature. A pioneer in the use of long takes and depth of field, he influenced generations of directors with his empathetic vision and subtle realism.