A professional who reads and interprets script, conducts rehearsals, and directs activities of cast and technical crew for motion picture film. Responsibilities include:

• Confers with art director to ensure that music, sets, scenic effects, and costumes conform to script interpretation.
• Confers with director of photography to explain details of scene to be photographed and to consider utilization of miniatures, stock film, inserts, transparencies, backgrounds, or trick shots.
• Schedules sequences of scenes to be filmed for each day of shooting, grouping scenes together according to set and cast of characters.
• Rehearses cast and suggests changes, using knowledge of acting, voice, and movement to elicit best possible performance.
• Informs technicians of scenery, lights, props, and other equipment desired.
• Approves scenery, costumes, choreography, and music.
• Directs cast, director of photography, and other technicians during rehearsals and final filming.
• May audition and select cast.
• May cut and edit film.
• May direct film on set in studio or on location.
• May direct film for television.