Styles of directing

The dictator

In this style of directing, the director has a strongly assertive role and is very dominant in the process of creating a theatrical work. Rehearsals are more or less fully controlled and predictable, with the actors having little or no say.

The negotiator

‘The negotiator‘ is a style of direction in which the director focuses on a more improvised and mediated form of rehearsal and creation, using the ideas of the production team and actors to shape a theatrical work in quite a democratic style.

The creative artist

The director sees himself or herself as a creative artist working with the ‘materials’ of dramatic creativity, be they the actors, designers and production team. The “creative artist” wants input from the actors but, as artist, has final say over what is included and how ideas are incorporated.

The confrontationalist

In this style of directing, the director is in constant dialogue and debate with the cast and the production team about creative decisions and interpretations. The director seeks out and actively engages in such exchanges. Out of these exchanges, which can sometimes be heated or risky, comes a final contested product

Taken from edubuzz

1) The “Technical” Director

This director spends most of his time with the crew on the technical aspects of the shot and scene. He spends very little time with the actors (giving direction). He may just want to “let the actors do their thing” or he may not know how to successfully communicate with an actor.

2) The “Performance” Director

This director works with and understands the actor and the “acting process” but he also spends time with the technical aspects of the shot and scene.

3) The “New” Director

This director is someone who knows “a little about something but not enough of the entire job of directing.” These directors work in other areas of the business and get a “shot” at directing (Ex: producer, writer, 1AD, editor, actor, DOP)

Taken from filmdirectingtips.com