Behind the Screen Study Guide Directing A film or videotape can be made by one person, and some indeed are. It is not unheard of for a single individual to perform all the production functions-write the script, run the camera, edit the film or tape, record and edit the soundtrack, etc.-and many independent films have been made this way. In such a case, it doesn't make much sense to call this individual a director-filmmaker, author, or video artist seem much more appropriate terms. Most films and television programs, however, require dozens, if not hundreds, of people. Thus, as early as 1906, a division of labor took place in which the film crew was broken down into units by craft-cinematography, editing, set design, for example-as a way both to organize and to manage the production. The modern director is the creative head of this pyramid of artists and technicians, and he or she bears the final creative responsibility for the result of the combined efforts. Spike Lee Spike Lee is one of the nation's most respected and controversial filmmakers. Since his debut film SHE'S GOTTA HAVE IT (1986), Lee has explored contemporary life as no other director has ever done. His films fuse melodramatic and comedic tones to examine race relations, urban tensions, class divisions, and African-American culture. The richness of his style and his eagerness for experimentation are reflected in the vivid colors, fluid camera movements, and jarring off-kilter compositions that characterize his films. With the inventive and socially conscious SCHOOL DAZE (1988) and DO THE RIGHT THING (1989), Lee has sparked a resurgence in African-American filmmaking and inspired a generation of independent filmmakers. In addition to his talents as a director, writer, actor, and producer, Lee has proven himself a canny businessman with a flair for controversy and self-promotion. back | index | next