A film director is the most competitive job role in the film industry. Almost every person has dreamt of directing at some point, but how you work up into this role is different for everyone. There are lots of work paths you can take to become a director.
On this page, we explain everything you need to know about how to become a film director. We break down the job role, including duties, education, career route, and salary.
What Is a Film Director?
A director is the driving force behind a film project. They direct the actors and lead the film until it’s completed.
Typically, the producer hires the director with the screenwriter during the start of pre-production. It’s then the job of the director to imagine the script for the screen. Although sometimes, they write the screenplay themselves.
Their first job is to read the script and help the producer to hire key roles. The director is also in charge of casting and making final cast decisions. They work closely with the producer during the planning stage to get the project ready for filming. The prep includes finding locations, approving costumes, and rehearsing scenes with actors.
During filming, they will direct the actors and have the final say on any creative decisions. The director is the leader of the film set and guides the whole crew through filming. After filming, they will lead their edit until the final cut.
What Does a Film Director Do?
| Pre-production | – Read and visualize the screenplay – Hire the key crew with the producer – Cast actors with the casting director – Help to plan and organize the shoot |
| Production | – Block the scene with actors – Direct all of the action for the screen – Lead and work with all of the crew – Approve all creative decisions |
| Post-Production | – Watch over the editing – Approve the final cut – Help to promote the film |
How to Become a Film Director
Essential film director skills:
- Leadership
- Teamwork
- Imagination
- Creativity
- Organization
- Film production knowledge
- Pitching
- Networking
A film director doesn’t need a degree, but attending a film school can teach you the basics. What is important is that you understand the entire filmmaking process from start to finish. You will also need to practice directing by making your own short films.
When you have enough directing experience, you should put together a portfolio. Before you apply for agents and directing jobs, you will need a portfolio of work credits. Producers will hire those they know and trust first. So, learning how to pitch your projects is a helpful skill.
Finding Film Director Jobs
The film director is an above-the-line role in the film industry. There is no one way to work up to this role. You can start your career as a production assistant and work in any department. This route will allow you to learn how a film set works whilst making industry contacts.
Another route is to practice directing by making short films and other low-budget projects. Some directors also start out in theatre, which lets them practice working with directors.
Once again, there is no set route into this role. What matters is that you fully understand the industry and gain skills within your job role. Because people will hire you based on recommendations, you need to learn to network and make contacts in the industry.
How Much Money Do Film Directors Make?
Minimum pay rate for directors: $1,779/day
The director’s salary is highly negotiable as are many production crew members’ rates. Typically, you can expect anywhere from 2-5% of the film’s overall budget.
Another key factor that affects your salary is whether or not you are part of a film union. If you are in America, being part of a union is integral to getting paid fairly. If you have an agent, they will also help to negotiate and get you a good salary.
