A director is responsible for overseeing every creative aspect of a film, from start to finish. From the "look" of the film to trademark lighting or mood, you can recognize the best directors' films by their artistic signatures. Alfred Hitchcock, Steven Spielberg and Woody Allen, for example, each leave their distinctive mark on every film they make.

When a director reads a script he or she develops a personal vision for how that story should be told. Whether it is a dark tale, a story of triumph, or one of passion, the director's unique vision will be responsible for presenting it in a way that no other director would. A director sees beyond the words on the page to a moving picture with specific shots, lighting, mood, nuance and emotion -- all visually created for the screen.

If the initial script needs work, the director will make suggestions to the writer for improving the script. The director may also bring key crew members to the project that he has successfully worked with in the past. He will be responsible for approving each and every camera angle, lens effect, the lighting, and set design.

The director also works closely with the cast, meeting before each scene to do a run through. Here he gets a feel for how the actor will play the scene. If needed, the director can provide motivational insight, or tweak performances by making suggestions. He will also listen to the suggestion of the actors.

Studio executives or executive producers, will visit the set to make sure the project is on schedule and on budget. The director will work with the studio execs to make sure they're happy about how the film is progressing.

At the end of the shooting day, the director, producer and key crew members will screen that day's footage in what are called dailies. Here they can see if scenes will need to be re-shot. The director will also be involved in post-production when the film gets edited into its final form.

Although a director is responsible for the vision behind a film, a good director also listens to his crew and cast and works collaboratively. There are many talented people involved in the making of a film and utilizing each person's talent is what makes a director, and the film, a success.