The Greatest Directors In Movie History
This is a list of the greatest directors in movie history, who are most deserving of Academy Awards and critical recognition. The list includes directors who have already won major awards, those who continue to have the potential to win Oscars, and filmmakers who were overlooked by the Academy during their lifetime.
Often, the greatest of these filmmakers will go unrecognized by the Academy of Motion Pictures, particularly during the most active, vital period of their careers. Alfred Hitchcock famously never took home a statue for best director, despite being perhaps the one of the most iconic film directors, and certainly one of the most significant contributors to contemporary film language and genre. Another one of the best film directors in history, Martin Scorsese, eventually did take home best director for his work on The Departed, but this film came long after the movies for which Scorsese will likely be best remembered - Mean Streets, Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and so on.
Who is the best film director? Do you think Guillermo del Toro is one of the greatest filmmakers of all time? Some say David Lynch is one of the greatest Hollywood directors of all time. If you don’t agree that they are some of the best movie directors, here's your chance to make your opinion known.
The top 10 people on this list are perhaps the 10 best directors of all time. Vote up those you believe are the best filmmakers of all time. Then check back to see if your favorites topped the list!
- 1
Widely recognized as one of the greatest filmmakers in history, Martin Scorsese's works are often characterized by gritty realism and vibrant storytelling. With iconic films such as Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and Goodfellas under his belt, Scorsese has left an indelible mark on cinema. His ability to chronicle the darker aspects of the human psyche has earned him both critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
- Credits (Film): The Wolf of Wall Street, Hugo, Goodfellas, The Aviator, Gangs of New York
- 1Goodfellas1,560 Votes
- 2Taxi Driver1,368 Votes
- 3The Departed1,441 Votes
- 2
Heralded for his meticulous attention to detail and striking visuals, Stanley Kubrick is a titan of the film industry. From groundbreaking science fiction like 2001: A Space Odyssey to the chilling horror of The Shining, Kubrick has proven his mastery of a wide range of genres. His innovative approach to filmmaking and powerful storytelling continue to inspire generations of directors.
- Credits (Film): Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb, Spartacus, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Full Metal Jacket, A Clockwork Orange
- 12001: A Space Odyssey1,037 Votes
- 2The Shining1,053 Votes
- 3Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb888 Votes
- 3
The undisputed master of suspense, Alfred Hitchcock's innovative filmmaking techniques revolutionized the thriller genre. Films like Psycho, Rear Window, and Vertigo showcase Hitchcock's uncanny ability to build tension, while North by Northwest and The Birds stand as testament to his skill with action sequences. His enduring influence on cinema can still be felt in the works of contemporary directors.
- Credits (Film): Psycho, The Birds, The Man Who Knew Too Much, Rear Window
- 1Psycho1,394 Votes
- 2Rear Window1,481 Votes
- 3North by Northwest1,342 Votes
- 4
As one of the pioneers of the modern blockbuster, Steven Spielberg has captivated audiences for decades. With timeless classics such as Jaws, E.T., and Jurassic Park, Spielberg has demonstrated his unparalleled ability to create unforgettably magical moments on screen. His incredible range as a director has also earned him acclaim for historical dramas like Schindler's List and Saving Private Ryan.
- Credits (Film): Munich, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, War of the Worlds, The Color Purple, War Horse
- 1Jaws2,823 Votes
- 2Raiders of the Lost Ark2,988 Votes
- 3Jurassic Park3,005 Votes
- 5
Christopher Nolan is known for his intricate, mind-bending narratives that challenge viewers to question their perception of reality. With films such as Memento, Inception, and the Dark Knight trilogy, Nolan has successfully combined thought-provoking themes with blockbuster appeal. His unique blend of intellectual depth and cinematic spectacle has solidified his reputation as a visionary filmmaker.
- Credits (Film): Batman Begins, Memento, The Dark Knight, The Dark Knight, Inception
- 6
Celebrated for his distinctive style and razor-sharp dialogue, Quentin Tarantino is a master of blending dark humor and brutal violence. With modern classics like Pulp Fiction, Reservoir Dogs, and Kill Bill, Tarantino has redefined the crime genre and developed a dedicated fan base. His love of cinema is palpable in every frame of his work, making him an influential figure in the world of film.
- Credits (Film): Django Unchained, Reservoir Dogs, Grindhouse, Inglourious Basterds, Sin City
- 1Hans Landa398 Votes
- 2Jules Winnfield415 Votes
- 3Vincent Vega335 Votes
