Filmmaking / Directing

I believe that to be successful in this creative business, you need to fully understand the Business of film; the Politics of film; the Differences between film and television; and who the Power Players are - and how to deal with them.

For example, here is the major difference between working on a feature film and a television series: "Television is a Producer's medium and Feature films are a Director's medium." This fact alone will give you a distinct advantage when it comes to surviving in the film and TV industry!

This distinction emphasizes the importance of adaptability and versatility for filmmakers seeking success in both mediums. While television demands collaboration with the producer's vision, feature films offer directors a place to imprint their artistic signature on every aspect of the production.

By understanding and utilizing these differences, filmmakers can excel in various creative settings. Those skilled in producer-driven television can leverage their teamwork abilities, while directors focused on feature films can use their independence to create compelling movies. Working and surviving in the film business requires a combination of creative talent, business acumen, and perseverance.

Here are 50 tips I believe you need to have, learn or nurture to help you work and survive in the film and television business today:

1. Adapt to Changing Circumstances: Flexibility is key in the film industry. Be prepared to adapt your plans and approaches to overcome unforeseen challenges. Being adaptable helps you navigate industry shifts and maintain progress under changing conditions.

2. Balance Art and Commerce: While passion for your craft is important, understanding the business side of filmmaking is crucial. Learn about budgeting, marketing, and distribution to ensure your projects are financially viable.

3. Be Financially Savvy: Manage your finances wisely, including saving for periods of unemployment and investing in your own projects. Financial stability allows you to make better career decisions.

4. Be Patient: Success in the film industry often takes time. Patience and perseverance are essential as you build your career and reputation.

5. Be Persistent: Success in the film industry often requires perseverance. Keep pitching your ideas, applying for jobs, and networking, even in the face of rejection. Persistence builds resilience and increases your chances of breakthrough opportunities.

6. Be Professional: Be reliable and punctual. Building a positive reputation in the industry requires maintaining professionalism in every interaction. This reputation will open doors to future opportunities and collaborations.

7. Build a Reliable Team: Surround yourself with talented and trustworthy collaborators. A strong, dependable team can make the production process smoother and more enjoyable. Trust and synergy within the team create a positive working environment and better creative outcomes.

8. Build a Strong Industry Network: Attend film festivals, industry events, and workshops. Join professional organizations to meet potential collaborators, investors, and mentors. Networking can lead to job opportunities and valuable industry insights.

9. Celebrate Small Victories: Filmmaking can be grueling, but maintaining your enthusiasm and love for storytelling will sustain you through tough times. Celebrate small victories and stay connected to what inspires you.

10. Champion Diversity and Inclusion: Actively seek out diverse voices, perspectives, and talent both in front of and behind the camera. Embrace the richness of diversity to create more authentic and inclusive storytelling. This approach can lead to more innovative and relatable films.

Next Article: 50 Tips on How to Work and Survive in the "Business" (pt2)

There are a variety of “specialist directors” in the film industry, each with a diverse range of directorial specialties, who bring their unique approaches, styles, perspectives and skill sets to the filmmaking process. These directorial types encompass various genres, themes, and creative approaches, catering to the diverse interests of audiences worldwide.

21. Period Drama Director: Their expertise lies in meticulously recreating historical settings, costumes, and cultural contexts. They pay close attention to historical accuracy while infusing the story with authenticity and emotional depth, transporting audiences to different eras with vivid detail. Period drama directors collaborate with designers and historians to ensure the period details are accurate. Their films often explore the social, political, and personal dynamics of past eras, making history relevant and compelling. James Ivory is renowned for his work on period dramas such as "A Room with a View," "Howard's End," and "The Remains of the Day," Ivory's films are celebrated for their attention to historical detail and emotional depth.

22. Romance Director: A romance director specializes in creating films that explore themes of love, romance, and relationships. They have a deep understanding of romantic concepts, visual storytelling techniques, and character-driven storytelling. Romance directors focus on developing deep emotional connections between characters, often creating moments of joy, conflict, and resolution. They skillfully use mood, lighting, and music to heighten the emotional impact, drawing audiences into the characters' personal journeys. Nora Ephron is celebrated for her charming and heartfelt romantic comedies, including classics like "When Harry Met Sally...," "Sleepless in Seattle," and "You've Got Mail," Ephron's films often explore the joys and challenges of finding and maintaining love.

23. Science Fiction Director: A sci-fi director specializes in creating futuristic and otherworldly films that explore themes of technology, space, and the unknown. They have a deep understanding of visual effects, world-building, and creative storytelling techniques. Sci-fi directors envision and construct detailed worlds that push the boundaries of imagination. Their films often address contemporary issues through the lens of future possibilities, exploring the impact of technology and human innovation. They collaborate closely with designers and VFX artists to create visual experiences that captivate audiences and make speculative concepts feel real. Ridley Scott is known for his groundbreaking and visually stunning science fiction films, such as "Blade Runner," "Alien," and "The Martian." Scott's work has had a profound impact on the genre.

24. Socially Conscious Director: These directors are passionate about addressing pressing social issues through their films. They use storytelling as a tool for advocacy, shedding light on topics such as inequality, discrimination, and human rights abuses. Their films often spark conversations and inspire action for positive change. Socially conscious directors aim to raise awareness and provoke thought, using their platform to influence societal attitudes and behaviors. Spike Lee is celebrated for his powerful explorations of race, class, and social issues in films such as "Do the Right Thing," "Malcolm X," and "BlacKkKlansman."

25. Television Commercial Director: TV commercial directors specialize in creating short, impactful advertisements that effectively communicate a brand’s message and capture the audience’s attention. They work closely with clients, agencies, and production teams to develop concepts and scripts that align with the brand’s identity and marketing goals. TV commercial directors use visual storytelling techniques to craft compelling stories within a brief timeframe, often employing creative visuals, catchy music, and memorable taglines. Michel Gondry is known for his imaginative and whimsical approach on commercials for Levi's, Gap, and Smirnoff, among others.

26. Television Episodic Director: An episodic drama television director has to create compelling and emotionally engaging episodes that fit within an existing TV series. They work closely with the writers, producers, and cast to ensure that each episode contributes meaningfully to the season's story arc. This role requires a keen understanding of pacing, character development, and dramatic tension to keep audiences invested week after week. They must also manage tight production schedules and coordinate complex scenes, often working with multiple locations with a large cast. Michele McLaren is an acclaimed television director known for her work on some of the most critically acclaimed TV series of the 21st century. She has directed episodes for shows such as "Breaking Bad," "Game of Thrones," and "Better Call Saul."

27. Television Movie Director: A television movie director specializes in directing films made specifically for television rather than theatrical release. They often work with tighter budgets and shorter production schedules compared to feature films. These directors need to be adept at storytelling within the constraints of TV formats, ensuring that the story is compelling and engaging for home audiences. Bobby Roth is known for his work on television movies such as "Heartbreakers", “Judgment Day: The John List Story,” and "The Man Who Fell to Earth," Roth has a prolific career directing numerous TV movies and series episodes. He has directed episodes of popular TV series like "Lost," and "Prison Break," showcasing his versatility and ability to handle diverse genres. (NOTE: I know Bobby personally. I was his 1st AD on 3 of his TV movies.)

28. Thriller Director: These directors excel not only at building suspense but also at creating tension-filled stories with unexpected twists and turns. They are masters of pacing, using cinematography, sound design, and editing to keep audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Thriller directors create intricate plots that captivate and surprise viewers, often delving into psychological and moral complexities. Their films are characterized by a gripping intensity that maintains audience engagement throughout. David Fincher is known for his meticulous and atmospheric thrillers, Fincher has directed films like "Se7en," "Gone Girl," and "Zodiac." His distinctive style often includes dark, moody visuals and complex, psychologically intense narratives that keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Hey Filmmaking Lounge,

This week, my creative growth came from a place I didn’t quite expect: a full crash course in new home buying.

I got an up-close look at the sheer minutia involved in bringing a new build across the finish line. Walking through every room to sign off on construction details. Reviewing and signing what felt like a literal binder of paperwork at closing. Spending hours on hold or navigating call bots just to get utilities set up. And yes, standing in line at the USPS during the Christmas season to pick up mail keys in person.

It has been a lot. But it has also been incredibly educational. The last six weeks have taught me more than I anticipated, and this week in particular was the most informative. It reminded me how much patience, attention to detail, and persistence are required in any complex process, whether it’s buying a home or bringing a film to life.

What about you?

What are you challenging yourself to learn right now to grow creatively or personally? A new skill, a new system, a new way of thinking?

We’re all storytellers, and our work is shaped by what we experience, what we notice, and what we learn along the way. Let’s share what’s expanding our perspective this week.

Hey everyone,

I’m sharing my first short film I wrote, directed, acted.This is part of a bigger journey for me as a filmmaker, and I’m actively looking to connect with creatives who love strong characters and bold storytelling.

Would really appreciate views, feedback, or even just a conversation if it resonates.

Watch here:

https://youtu.be/Xeagldv49e8?si=E-lVNuRW4uRgiOcH

IMO, The Coca Cola AI commercial vividly demonstrates one of the insurmountable issues with pure AI generation: it is soulless. You cannot watch this without thinking how alike each character is, how emotive none of them are. Even a second-rate animator would have put more sincere expressions onto these characters. As it is, their eyes are dead, their smiles are fake, their expressions seem all from a single sample.

Increasingly, the term "uncanny valley" is used to describe the phenomenon that human beings express distrust and discomfort with anything that pretends to be human but isn't. Essentially, if a robot looks and acts like a robot, even one that speaks naturally, we are fine with it. If it is dressed up as a human and tries to pass itself off as a human, even with technical perfection, we detect it and we are not comfortable. The fact that we learn the truth does not make us any less uncomfortable or more trusting when we are in the presence of that fake human. This is IMO at the core of why AI as a narrative tool cannot succeed without human talent involved.

The issue is not with the technical prettiness of props and lighting, which in an animated sequence is never an issue. It is in the inherent vapidness of emotion, the inherent absence of talent behind the characters. In film, in theater, in story, we only ever connect with human beings. Even the greatest VFX film fails if it hasn't got talent that audiences connect to on a personal basis. This is a fact of human communication. We don't talk to inanimate objects and we don't relate to them unless there is something wrong with our minds.

Producers who figure this out will use the tech where it is good, to shorten workflow and supplement visuals, prep, production design, etc, but they will be careful to keep the human creator involved where that counts: the screen talent, the human who actually fine tunes animation, the production designer and director who create an original environment. These producers will succeed. The rest will fall back into the mucky puddle of anonymity where, frankly, they belong.

I am a consultant for AI startup AerithAI.com - which is integrating AI into a VFX narrative film production workflow, but moving far beyond that into the next wave of quantum computing. My position with them is to ensure they are at the forefront of the actual art, as the tech develops.

See the commercial here:

https://youtu.be/YunDvCb4OeM

There are a variety of “specialist directors” in the film industry, each with a diverse range of directorial specialties, who bring their unique approaches, styles, perspectives and skill sets to the filmmaking process. These directorial types encompass various genres, themes, and creative approaches, catering to the diverse interests of audiences worldwide.

11. Family/Children's Director: These directors create wholesome entertainment suitable for viewers of all ages. They prioritize themes of love, friendship, and resilience, delivering messages of hope and inspiration to families worldwide. These directors focus on creating engaging and educational content that appeals to both children and adults, fostering a sense of wonder and imagination. Chris Columbus directed movies such as "Home Alone," "Mrs. Doubtfire," and the first two "Harry Potter" films.

12. Fantasy Director: A fantasy director specializes in creating magical, fantastical, and otherworldly films that transport the audience to new and imaginative worlds. They have a deep understanding of visual effects, world-building, and mythical storytelling techniques. Fantasy directors excel at crafting visually stunning, emotionally captivating stories that explore themes of adventure, magic, and heroism. Their films often feature elaborate set designs and groundbreaking special effects. Guillermo del Toro. Known for his visually stunning and imaginative films such as "Pan's Labyrinth" and "The Shape of Water."

13. Genre Director: A genre director specializes in a specific genre of film, such as horror, action, or comedy. They have a deep understanding of the conventions of their chosen genre and often work within established formulas to create films that appeal to a specific audience. Genre directors are adept at creating atmospheres and stories that match audience expectations, ensuring their films deliver the desired emotional impact. They often innovate within their genre, pushing its boundaries while respecting its core elements. George A. Romero is known for his groundbreaking work in the zombie horror genre. Romero directed classics such as "Night of the Living Dead," "Dawn of the Dead “(1978) and "Day of the Dead."

14. Historical Director: A historical director specializes in creating films that are set in the past and explore historical events, figures, and themes. They have a deep understanding of historical accuracy, period costumes, and visual storytelling techniques. They meticulously research historical details to ensure authenticity and often collaborate with historians and experts. Their films bring historical periods to life, making them accessible and engaging for modern audiences. Oliver Stone is known for directing powerful historical films like "Platoon," "JFK," and "Nixon." His work often explores complex historical and political themes, providing a provocative perspective on historical events.

15. Horror Director: A horror director specializes in creating suspenseful, terrifying, and atmospheric films that play on the audience's fears and anxieties. They have a deep understanding of horror tropes, visual storytelling techniques, and the psychology of fear. Horror directors are skilled at manipulating tension and using visual and sound cues to induce fear. Their films often explore deep-seated societal anxieties, using the horror genre as a lens to examine human nature. Wes Craven is known for creating iconic horror films such as "A Nightmare on Elm Street," "Scream," and "The Hills Have Eyes." His work has had a profound impact on the horror genre, blending psychological terror with innovative storytelling.

16. Independent Director: An Independent Director operates outside of the major studio system, often taking on multiple roles in a project, including writing, producing, and editing. They typically work with smaller budgets, which requires creativity and resourcefulness in overcoming financial and logistical limitations. Independent directors have more creative control over their films, allowing them to explore unique, experimental, or personal stories that might not fit mainstream commercial trends. This freedom enables them to push boundaries and express their individual voice, often resulting in films that reflect distinct artistic perspectives. Jim Jarmusch is known for his distinctive style in independent films like "Stranger Than Paradise," "Dead Man," and "Only Lovers Left Alive." His minimalist approach and unique storytelling have earned him critical acclaim in the indie film scene.

17. LGBTQ+ Director: Voices of the LGBTQ+ community, these directors tell stories that authentically represent diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. They challenge stereotypes and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, creating films that celebrate love, identity, and acceptance. LGBTQ+ directors often draw from personal experiences to bring authenticity and depth to their stories. Their work plays a crucial role in increasing the visibility and representation of the LGBTQ+ community in cinema. Xavier Dolan is a prominent LGBTQ+ director whose films frequently address LGBTQ+ themes and characters. His acclaimed works include "I Killed My Mother," "Laurence Anyways," and "Mommy."

18. Music Video Director: Music video directors specialize in creating short, visually compelling stories that complement and enhance the music of an artist. They often use innovative techniques, striking visuals, and creative storytelling to capture the essence of the song and the artist's vision. Music video directors collaborate closely with musicians, choreographers, and production teams to deliver engaging and memorable videos. Their work often requires balancing artistic expression with brand image, as music videos serve both as art and promotional material for the artist. Michel Gondry is known for his surreal and visually imaginative music videos for artists such as Daft Punk ("Around the World"), The White Stripes ("Fell in Love with a Girl"), and Björk ("Human Behaviour").

19. Musical Director: A musical director specializes in creating films that incorporate music and dance as integral elements of the storytelling. They have a deep understanding of musical composition, choreography, and visual storytelling techniques. Musical directors coordinate with composers, choreographers, and performers to seamlessly blend music and story. Their films often feature elaborate musical numbers that advance the plot and develop characters. Baz Luhrmann is famous for his visually stunning and musically vibrant films such as "Moulin Rouge!," "Strictly Ballroom," and "The Great Gatsby." His films are known for their elaborate set designs, bold color palettes, and innovative use of contemporary music in historical settings.

20. New Wave Director: Also known as the French New Wave, it occurred primarily during the late 1950s to the mid-1960s. A new wave director was part of a movement or group of filmmakers who challenged traditional filmmaking conventions and pushed the boundaries of the medium. They experimented with story structures and visual styles to create innovative and groundbreaking films. New Wave directors often broke away from established norms, exploring themes and forms that are unconventional and provocative. Jean-Luc Godard was a key figure in the French New Wave, known for films like "Breathless," "Alphaville," and "Pierrot le Fou," which challenged traditional filmmaking conventions with innovative techniques and narrative styles.

Next Article: 28 Types of “Specialist” Directors (pt3)

This article stopped me in my tracks, not just for its subject, but for how clearly it shows what documentary filmmaking can do when empathy leads the process.

Deadline just spotlighted the Oscar-contending short documentary They Call Me The Tattoo Witch, directed and produced by Lindsay Nyman. The film profiles Tran Ngoc, a tattoo artist in Hanoi whose work centers on something most artists avoid: scar tissue. Instead of hiding scars, she studies them, listens to their stories, and incorporates them directly into her designs, transforming wounds into chosen, meaningful art.

What makes this such a powerful filmmaking case study is how intention shows up at every level. The film isn’t about tattooing. It’s about reclamation. It’s about agency, healing, and identity, especially within a culture where both scars and tattoos carry stigma. Ngoc’s studio becomes a sacred space where people confront trauma and walk away lighter, not because their past is erased, but because it’s embraced.

From a craft perspective, there’s so much to learn here:

Choosing a subject whose work already contains visual metaphor

Letting clients be collaborators rather than “subjects”

Building trust and intimacy on camera without spectacle

Aligning crew values with story values

Nyman also assembled an all-female crew in Hanoi, something rarely done there. That choice shaped the environment, the conversations, and ultimately the film itself. It’s a reminder that how you make a film is inseparable from what the film becomes.

Read the full article here:

https://deadline.com/2025/12/they-call-me-the-tattoo-witch-director-lind...

Watch the trailer here:

https://youtu.be/KbaZFRz0RIs

For filmmakers: when you think about your own projects, how often are you asking who the story serves and how your process supports that story? And where might you be able to lean more into empathy as a creative tool?

https://www.stage32.com/lounge/vip/Ask-Me-Anything-AMA-12-12-to-12-13-Na...

Josh has 15+ years of experience as a studio executive and producer, with credits across Blumhouse, MGM+, Amazon Prime, Netflix, and more. He’s here to answer all questions about the screenwriting and filmmaking journey — from keeping your material fresh to understanding script coverage to navigating creative blocks.

There are a variety of “specialist directors” in the film industry, each with a diverse range of directorial specialties, who bring their unique approaches, styles, perspectives and skill sets to the filmmaking process. These directorial types encompass various genres, themes, and creative approaches, catering to the diverse interests of audiences worldwide.

Some directors specialize in socially conscious filmmaking, using their movies to shed light on pressing social issues and advocate for change, while others focus on creating wholesome family entertainment that connects with viewers of all ages.

Other directors excel in bringing stories from different cultures and languages to the screen while LGBTQ+ directors play a vital role in authentically representing the experiences of the LGBTQ+ community, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for inclusivity and acceptance.

Many “up-and-coming” directors are pushing the boundaries of traditional filmmaking, experimenting with new techniques and storytelling approaches to redefine the cinematic landscape.

Each type of director brings a unique blend of creativity, passion, and expertise to their projects, contributing to the rich tapestry of cinema, and shaping the industry's ever-evolving landscape with their unique visions.

Here is a list of 28 types of “specialist directors” in the film industry, each contributing their distinct approach and expertise. From music video directors who bring a unique visual style to action directors skilled in choreographing intense scenes, these specialists enrich specific aspects of storytelling that elevate a film's impact.

NOTE: The directors listed below are a good example of who I feel represent a specific genre. There are obviously dozens, if not hundreds, of other director examples that can be put into each category. :)

1. Action Director: An action director specializes in high-octane, adrenaline-fueled sequences, such as car chases, fight scenes, and explosions. They have a deep understanding of stunt work, special effects, and visual storytelling techniques. Action directors must also ensure the safety of the cast and crew during dangerous scenes, often collaborating closely with stunt coordinators. Their ability to choreograph complex sequences and maintain story tension is crucial to the success of action films. Example: John Woo is known for his highly stylized action sequences and innovative use of slow motion is such iconic films such as "Hard Boiled," "The Killer," and "Face/Off."

2. Animation Director: An animation director specializes in creating animated films that bring characters and worlds to life through the use of computer-generated imagery (CGI), traditional animation, or a combination of both. They have a deep understanding of animation techniques, visual storytelling, and character design and collaborate closely with animators, voice actors, and visual effects artists. Example: Hayao Miyazaki is known for his masterful storytelling and stunning hand-drawn animation. Miyazaki has directed beloved films such as "Spirited Away," "My Neighbor Totoro," and "Princess Mononoke."

3. Art House Director: An art house director creates films that are often experimental or avant-garde in nature, focusing on artistic expression and unconventional storytelling techniques. They may work with smaller budgets and have a more niche audience. Art house directors prioritize thematic depth and visual artistry over commercial appeal. Their films are typically showcased in film festivals and independent theaters. Example: Ingmar Bergman is known for his profound exploration of human psychology and existential themes, with acclaimed films such as "The Seventh Seal," "Persona," and "Wild Strawberries."

4. Auteur Director: An auteur director is known for their distinctive style and vision, often writing their own scripts and having a strong influence on all aspects of the film. They are considered the primary creative force behind the film and often have a signature style that is recognizable across their body of work. Auteur directors are celebrated for their personal touch and thematic consistency. Their films often reflect their unique worldview and artistic philosophy, making them stand out in the industry.

Example: Alfred Hitchcock is known for his mastery of suspense and psychological thrillers such as "Psycho," "Rear Window," and "Vertigo."

5. Blockbuster Director: A blockbuster director creates big-budget, high-concept films focusing on spectacle and entertainment. They often work with large crews and have a more commercial approach to filmmaking. Blockbuster directors excel in managing complex productions, including extensive special effects, large-scale sets, and numerous actors. Their films are designed to attract mass audiences, often resulting in box-office hits and extensive marketing campaigns. Example: Steven Spielberg is known for his ability to create epic, high-concept films that appeal to a wide audience including "Jaws," "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial," and "Jurassic Park.

6. Comedy Director: A comedy director specializes in creating films that are funny, lighthearted, and entertaining. They have a deep understanding of comedic timing, visual gags, and character-driven humor. Comedy directors excel in creating a humorous atmosphere, often working closely with actors to deliver memorable performances. Their films aim to entertain and uplift audiences, often using satire and wit to comment on social and cultural issues. Example: Mel Brooks is known for his distinctive style of humor including the iconic comedy films, "Blazing Saddles," "Young Frankenstein," and "The Producers."

7. Documentary Director: A documentary director creates non-fiction films that explore real-world issues, events, or people. They use interviews, archival footage, and other techniques to tell a compelling story. Documentary directors are dedicated to uncovering the truth and presenting it in an engaging manner. They often tackle important social, political, or environmental issues, aiming to inform and inspire change through their work. Example: Ken Burns is known for his in-depth historical documentaries and he has directed acclaimed works such as "The Civil War," "The Vietnam War," and "Jazz."

8. Drama Director: A drama director specializes in creating emotionally engaging, character-driven films that explore complex themes and relationships. They have a deep understanding of human emotions, storytelling techniques, and visual aesthetics. Drama directors excel in crafting nuanced performances and rich narratives that resonate with audiences. Their films often delve into personal and societal conflicts, providing profound insights into the human condition. Example: Ang Lee has directed such diverse and emotionally rich films as "Brokeback Mountain," "The Ice Storm," and "Life of Pi."

9. Emerging Director: These up-and-coming talents are at the forefront of innovation and experimentation in filmmaking. They push boundaries, explore new techniques, and tackle bold themes, injecting fresh energy and creativity into the industry. Emerging directors often gain recognition through film festivals and independent projects, quickly making a name for themselves with their unique vision. With each project, they pave the way for the future of storytelling. Example: Greta Gerwig Is known for her distinct voice and fresh approach to storytelling. She has directed critically acclaimed films such as "Lady Bird" and "Little Women."

10. Experimental Director: An experimental director creates films that push the boundaries of traditional storytelling and film techniques. They use unusual camera angles, editing techniques, and story structures to create a unique cinematic experience. Experimental directors often work outside mainstream cinema, embracing avant-garde approaches to explore new forms of expression. Their work challenges viewers to think differently about film and its possibilities. Example: Michael Snow is an experimental director known for his avant-garde approach to filmmaking with influential works such as "Wavelength," "La Région Centrale," and "So Is This."

Next Article 28 Types of “Specialist” Directors (pt2)