CharlesPapert
Director of Photography
Perhaps it would be better to say that one position is more critical than another rather than more important. The further up the hierarchy, the greater the impact a single person will have on the day's work. Department heads are all critical to the success of a project. My job as a DP is made much easier by working with a great production designer or costume designer because they will be putting great things in front of the camera for me to photograph (and they know what will or won't photograph well, and when to consult on it etc).
As far as the importance of an AC, ultimately that is the DP's responsibility. You hire them, their work is a reflection on you. If they have trouble with focus pulling, either replace them or make their jobs easier to ensure greater success, either by giving them more stop, more rehearsals etc.
I do agree that the story and performances should be priority over the visuals but hopefully it's not one or the other.
As far as the importance of an AC, ultimately that is the DP's responsibility. You hire them, their work is a reflection on you. If they have trouble with focus pulling, either replace them or make their jobs easier to ensure greater success, either by giving them more stop, more rehearsals etc.
I do agree that the story and performances should be priority over the visuals but hopefully it's not one or the other.