The Director’s Cut - A DGA Podcast

Directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller discuss their new film, Project Hail Mary, with fellow Director Guillermo del Toro in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, they discusses finding depth in their characters by trying to see the good intentions is everyone including antagonists, the casting and puppeteering processes that helped realize the alien character of Rocky, and bringing their philosophy of trying to make encouraging films to this feature. The film tells the story of scientist Ryland Grace, who wakes up on a spaceship as part of a desperate mission to stop the Earth’s sun from dying. On his own and millions of miles from home, he has a chance meeting with an alien on the same mission, forming a friendship that may prove to be the key to success. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/june2026/projecthailmary_qna_0426

Director Visar Morina discusses his new film, Shame and Money, with fellow Director Valerie Weiss in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses how he experiments with scenes and leaves time for discovering natural moments on set, some of his filmic influences that contributed to specific scenes, and his strategic use of staging and tension in the film. Screened as part of the DGA’s Global Cinema Series, the film tells the story of Shaban, a proud family man struggling to provide as financial pressures mount. Embarrassed about accepting the support of his family, he faces tough choices about pride versus survival. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/june2026/gcs-shameandmoney_0426

Director David Lowery discusses his new film, Mother Mary, with fellow Director Antonio Campos in a Q&A at the DGA theater in New York. In the conversation, he discusses how the project was born from a desire to shoot a one-room film, the choreography behind the seance scene, and his influences in costume and production design that set the groundwork for the film. The film tells the story of iconic pop star Mother Mary as she reunites with her estranged best friend and former costume designer, Sam. In need of a dress for her new tour, Mary asks Sam to help her, causing long-buried wounds, past traumas and specters to return to the spotlight. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/may2026/mothermary_qna_0426

Directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin & Tyler Gillett discuss their new film, Ready or Not 2: Here I Come, with fellow Director Jorma Taccone in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, they discuss casting Actor Kathryn Newton alongside Samara Weaving, how they film a lot of coverage in the kill sequences for story options in the edit, and their intentional methods of directing that allow them to strike a balance between comedy and horror in the final product. This sequel to the 2019 feature Ready or Not finds Grace, the lone survivor of the first film, discovering that she’s trapped in the next level of the nightmarish game - this time with her sister along for the ride. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/may2026/readyornot2_qna_0326

Director Maggie Gyllenhaal discusses her new film, The Bride!, with fellow Director Greta Gerwig in a Q&A at the DGA theater in New York. In the conversation, she discusses the influence of 1930s cinema on the film’s themes, using dance sequences as a medium for her characters to express complicated emotions, and working with her Costume Designer to create striking looks for the cast. Set in an alternate 1930’s Chicago, the film follows Ida, a murdered woman brought back to life to be the monster Frankenstein’s companion. Ida’s second chance sparks a whirlwind of romance, police interest, and radical social change. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/may2026/thebride_qna_0326

Directors Carl Deal, Tia Lessin and the film’s subject, Amy Goodman discuss their new film, Steal This Story, Please!, with fellow Director Ondi Timoner in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, the filmmakers discuss the structure of the film as a way to get to know Amy before her work, how the filmmakers originally met Amy, and the relevance of Democracy Now! in a modern corporate news landscape. Screened as part of the DGA’s Documentary Series, the film follows Goodman as she becomes a leader in the movement for independent media. Set against some of the most consequential stories of our time, Goodman works to amplify voices excluded from the mainstream and faces off against forces trying to silence her. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/april2026/docseries_stealthisstoryplease-0326

Director Kevin Williamson discusses his new film, Scream 7, with fellow Director Paul Feig in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses how the original concept of Scream came to be, how he balanced horror and comedy to establish the tone, and the importance and careful use of score needed to maintain the film’s tension. In the newest installment of the Scream franchise, original victim Sidney Prescott hopes to reinvent her life in a different town. But when a new killer emerges, her darkest fears are realized as her daughter becomes his prized target. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/april2026/scream7_qna_0326

Director Tom Harper discusses his new film, Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man, with fellow Director Mary Harron in a Q&A at the DGA theater in New York. In the conversation, he discusses working with Actor Cillian Murphy, how making a Peaky Blinders film differed from an episode of the series, and working closely with his composer to find a soundtrack befitting the tone. A sequel to the award-winning television series Peaky Blinders, the film follows Tommy Shelby as he returns from exile to a post-World War II Birmingham. With unsettled business and his future at stake, he must face his demons and choose whether to confront his legacy or burn it to the ground. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/april2026/peakyblinders_qna_0326

Director John Patton Ford discusses his new film, How to Make a Killing, with fellow Director Kobi Libii in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses inspirations and early iterations of the film, managing the tone as over-the-top events happening in a grounded and believable world, and the importance of sound design to the construction of the film. Loosely inspired by the 1949 feature Kind Hearts and Coronets, the film tells the story of Becket Redfellow, a blue collar worker disowned by his wealthy relatives. Determined to reclaim his inheritance, he launches a campaign of manipulation, betrayal and calculated violence to eliminate everyone standing between him and the fortune. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/april2026/how2makeakilling_qna_0226

Director Gore Verbinski discusses his new film, Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die, with fellow Director Sacha Gervasi in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses how he wanted to approach the story with a modern take on AI, how Actor Sam Rockwell’s costume was made from scrap technology found in surplus stores, and finding a delicate balance for the film's tone in between apocalyptic, comedic and irreverent. The film follows a man, allegedly from the future, who arrives at a Los Angeles diner and takes the patrons hostage. Claiming they are the precise combination of strangers he needs, he convinces them to join a quest to save the world from a rogue artificial intelligence. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/april2026/goodluckhavefundontdie_qna_0226

Director Emerald Fennell discusses her new film, Wuthering Heights, with fellow Director J.J. Abrams in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, she discusses her approach to adapting the original text, working with her Production Design team to create surreal landscapes and environments reminiscent of human features, and collaborating with musical artist Charli XCX to create a soundtrack for the film. Based on the novel by Emily Brontë, the film follows the impoverished Heathcliffe and the wealthy Catherine, two young lovers hailing from different social classes. After Catherine marries someone else and Heathcliffe disappears in despair, years pass and he returns with mysterious wealth and nefarious intentions. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/april2026/wutheringheights_qna_0226

Paul Thomas Anderson (One Battle After Another), Ryan Coogler (Sinners), Guillermo del Toro (Frankenstein), Josh Safdie (Marty Supreme) and Chloé Zhao (Hamnet) engage in a conversation with moderator Jeremy Kagan for the 35th Annual DGA Meet the Nominees: Theatrical Feature Film Symposium. Please note: spoilers are included. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/Events/2026/March2026/MTN_TheatricalFeatureFilm2026

Paul Thomas Anderson (One Battle After Another), Ryan Coogler (Sinners), Guillermo del Toro (Frankenstein), Josh Safdie (Marty Supreme) and Chloé Zhao (Hamnet) engage in a conversation with moderator Jeremy Kagan for the 35th Annual DGA Meet the Nominees: Theatrical Feature Film Symposium. Please note: spoilers are included. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/Events/2026/March2026/MTN_TheatricalFeatureFilm2026

Director Paul Feig discusses his new film, The Housemaid, with fellow Director Lesli Linka Glatter in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses the intentional casting of Actors Amanda Seyfried and Sydney Sweeney opposite one another, finding the house that served as the main location and how its architecture led to the discovery of scenes, and balancing the film’s tone between comedy and drama to give breathing room for heavier aspects of the film. The film tells the story of Millie, who accepts a job as a live-in housemaid for a wealthy couple as a way of trying to put her troubled past behind her. But what begins as a dream job quickly unravels into something far more dangerous — a seductive game of secrets, scandal, and power. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/february2026/housemaid_qna_1225

Director Bradley Cooper discusses his new film, Is This Thing On?, with fellow Director Bennett Miller in a Q&A at the DGA theater in New York. In the conversation, he discusses the true story circumstances that inspired the film, how he envisioned and cast Will Arnett and Laura Dern in the leading roles, and utilizing his cinematography to emphasize the vulnerability of performing stand up comedy. The film tells the story of Alex, a middle aged man facing a divorce, who finds new purpose in the New York comedy scene. As he pursues comedy, his wife, Tess, confronts the sacrifices made for their family, forcing them both to navigate co-parenting and their changing identities. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/february2026/isthisthingon_qna_1225

Director Craig Brewer discusses his new film, Song Sung Blue, with fellow Director Taylor Hackford in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses how he cast Actors Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson for the lead roles, his care in handling a film that frequently changes tones, and getting the blessing from Neil Diamond to make the film. Based on a true story, the film follows Mike and Claire Sardina, a Milwaukee couple who form the Neil Diamond tribute act Lightning and Thunder. Riding the highs and lows of success, the couple prove it’s never too late to find love and follow your dreams. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/january2026/songsungblue_qna_1225

Director Mona Fastvold discusses her new film, The Testament of Ann Lee, with fellow Director Darius Marder in a Q&A at the DGA theater in New York. In the conversation, she discusses how her background in movement and dance contributed to the choreography, the logistics of shooting the barn burning scene, and how she aimed to show authentic moments of womanhood to sympathize with the journey of Ann Lee. Based on real events, the film follows Ann Lee, who hopes to create a utopian society in the 18th century. Proclaimed as the female Christ by her followers, Lee suffers persecution as she forges the radical religious movement that would go on to become the Shakers. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/january2026/testamentofannlee_qna_1225

Director Rian Johnson discusses his new film, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, with fellow Director Jon Watts in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses finding and casting Actor Josh O’Connor, the effort behind crafting and lighting the sets, and how his relationship with faith influenced the film. The film finds Blanc teaming up with an earnest young priest to investigate a perfectly impossible crime. When the leader of a small town church with a dark history dies from seemingly impossible circumstances, Blanc must discover who in the rogues gallery of his congregation committed the crime, and how. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/january2026/wakeupdeadman_qna_1225

Director Josh Safdie discusses his new film, Marty Supreme, with fellow Director Ben Affleck in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses how he uses his casting process to select Actors that make every character feel like a fleshed-out person, his attention to minute details in recreating the time period and texture of 1950s New York, and the process of working with Actor Timothée Chalamet to capture an aggressively determined performance. The film follows Marty Mauser, a cocky and ambitious shoe salesman who dreams of pursuing greatness. Using his table tennis skills to hustle his way towards the top, he quickly rises in the ranks with the singular goal of escaping his mundane life. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/february2026/martysupreme_qna_1225

Director James Cameron discusses his new film, Avatar: Fire and Ash, with fellow Director Guillermo del Toro in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses his experiences of shooting in performance capture and how they compare to real-world shoots, coming up with the concept for the fire clan and the complex characters that stray from their expected alignments, and his own thoughts on capturing beauty in his films and advocating for the theatrical experience. The third installment of the Avatar franchise continues the story of Jake and Neytiri’s family unit as they encounter a new, aggressive Na’vi tribe, the Ash People, led by the fiery Varang. When Varang forms an alliance with Jake’s nemesis, Colonel Quaritch, the conflict on Pandora escalates and a new moral focus emerges. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/january2026/avatarfirenash_qna_1125

Director James L. Brooks discusses his new film, Ella McCay, with fellow Director Albert Brooks in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses his process of casting and how he found Actor Emma Mackey for the lead role, shares how he works with his Cinematographers and Actors, and takes time to reflect on his storied career and history with Albert Brooks. The film tells the story of Ella, a young politician who suddenly becomes the governor of her state after the longtime incumbent accepts a cabinet position with the president. Trying to navigate this new rough and tumble realm of politics, she finds that her fractured family relationships may pose an even bigger challenge. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/january2026/ellamccay_qna_1225

Director Hikari discusses her new film, Rental Family, with fellow Director Nicole Holofcener in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, she discusses working with Actor Brendan Frasier to capture a character out of their element, working with her Cinematographer to capture the beauty of Japan, and how she wanted to use this film to address the real life loneliness epidemic. The film tells the story of Phillip, an actor struggling to find work and purpose in Tokyo. After discovering a company that hires actors to play a role in real people’s lives, he immerses himself in his clients’ worlds and rediscovers purpose, belonging, and the beauty of human connection. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/january2026/rentalfamily_qna_1125

Directors Daniel Junge and Sam Pollard discusses their new film, I Was Born This Way, with fellow Director Jade Jenise Dixon in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, they discuss trying to paint an honest, human portrait of Carl Bean, how they manage the collaborative directorial process in their creative partnership, and working with figures such as Lady Gaga, Billy Porter and Maxine Waters to investigate what the titular song means to them. Screened as part of the DGA’s Documentary Series, the film tells the story of Carl Bean, who survived the oppression of racism and homophobia, and found his voice through a mainstream music career. But dissatisfied with his path to stardom, Bean chose a life of activism, founding LGBTQ+ and AIDS relief organizations to help underserved populations. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/january2026/docseries_iwasbornthisway-1125

Director Jon M. Chu discusses his new film, Wicked: For Good, with fellow Director Rob Marshall in a Q&A at the DGA theater in New York. In the conversation, he discusses the process of assembling the sequel having filmed both installments at the same time, how he chose to favor great Actor performances over interesting setups when they clashed, and how he strove to make the films relevant to the times. The sequel to 2024’s Wicked resumes the story of Elphaba, the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the popular Good Witch of the North. As their unlikely friendship is tested by the Wizard’s regime, the arrival of a stranger from Kansas sparks a series of events that will change everyone’s lives for good. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/january2026/wicked4good_qna_1125

Director Richard Linklater discusses his new film, Nouvelle Vague, with fellow Director Jason Reitman in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses the challenges of making a French film without being fluent in the language, how he recreated the shooting of the original Breathless by researching the documentation left behind by the original production, and the clever and subtle use of visual effects to recreate the film’s time period. The film tells the story of a young Jean-Luc Godard, who gives up writing for a French film magazine to make movies himself. With help from François Truffaut to write a treatment and assistance from Georges de Beauregard to fund the feature, Godard brings to life his vision for a film called Breathless. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/january2026/nouvellevague_qna_1125

Director Chloé Zhao discusses her new film, Hamnet, with fellow Director Barry Jenkins in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, she discusses working with Writer Maggie O’Farrell and their different experiences with Shakespeare, collaborating with Cinematographer Lukasz Zal and how they captured images invoking the void, and her process of working with Actors to channel their unconscious selves in their performances. Based on the novel by Maggie O’Farrell, the film follows Agnes and William Shakespeare as they live a pastoral life with their family. When their young son Hamnet dies, they both deal with the loss in their own respective ways, sowing the seeds for the creation of the classic play Hamlet. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/january2026/hamnet_qna_1125

Director Edgar Wright discusses his new film, The Running Man, with fellow Director Daniel Scheinert in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses the vast number of locations where the film was shot, how he favored practical effects work and his attitudes on computer generated effects, and his vision for a dystopian future where technology simultaneously regresses as it advances. The film tells the story of Ben Richards, a working-class man in a near future society who is convinced to enter the popular and deadly television show The Running Man as a last resort to escape poverty. But as the show hunts him down, Ben’s defiance, instincts, and grit turn him into a fan favorite and a threat to the entire system as he must outwit not just the game’s hunters, but a nation addicted to watching him fall. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2026/january2026/runningman_qna_1125

Director Sean McNamara discusses his new film, Soul on Fire, with fellow Director Dean Alioto in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses finding a balance in humor throughout the story as a reflection of the real John’s personality, how he works with his Actors and puts emphasis his rehearsal process, and incorporating the real John O’Leary with some creative filmmaking tactics. The film tells the true story of John O’Leary, who survived a tragic accident as a young boy that left him severely burned all over his body. Recovering from his injury, he goes on to become a motivational speaker and inspire millions of people to make the world a better place. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/december2025/soulonfire_qna_1125

Director Ben Stiller discusses his new film, Stiller & Meara: Nothing is Lost, with fellow Director Ethan Hawke in a Q&A at the DGA theater in New York. In the conversation, he discusses how the project began as a reaction after his father passed, how the title originated from some of his mother’s personal philosophies, and how interviewing his family members and going through archives revealed much about his parents he did not know. Screened as part of the DGA’s Documentary Series, the film tells the story of comedic duo Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara, exploring their impact both on popular culture and at home. In the process, Ben turns the camera on himself to examine the generational lessons we all can learn from those we love. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/december2025/docseries_stillerandmeara-1125

Director Noah Baumbach discusses his new film, Jay Kelly, with fellow Director Todd Field in a Q&A at the DGA theater in New York. In the conversation, he discusses finding inspiration in Fellini, Bergman and other self-reflective cinema, the technical process behind filming the flashback sequences, and how he tailored the lead roles to Actors George Clooney and Adam Sandler. The film tells the story of movie star Jay Kelly and his devoted manager as they take a whirlwind trip through Europe. Along the way, their journey becomes unexpectedly profound as they are forced to confront their choices, relationships, and the legacies they'll leave behind. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/december2025/jaykelly_qna_1125

Director Nia DaCosta discusses her new film, Hedda, with fellow Director Daniel Scheinert in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, she discusses her philosophies on adaptations and how that played into making this film, the importance of party, drug and gun cultures to the making of this story, and how she visually tied the themes of the film into Hedda’s appearance. This reimagining of Henrik Ibsen’s play Hedda Gabler follows the newlywed daughter of a general as she navigates a house she does not want, a marriage she feels trapped in, and an ex-lover who reappears in her life. Over the course of one charged night, long-repressed desires and hidden tensions erupt—pulling her and everyone around her into a spiral of manipulation, passion, and betrayal. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/december2025/hedda-1025

Director Ira Sachs discusses his new film, Peter Hujar’s Day, with fellow DirectorBette Gordon in a Q&A at the DGA theater in New York. In the conversation, he discusses discovering the story beats from the original 35-page writing, being inventive with blocking for a feature about a sit-down interview, and shooting in a style reminiscent of films of that era. Based on the book by Linda Rosenkrantz, the film tells the story of a single day in 1974 when Rosenkrantz and groundbreaking queer photographer Peter Hujar engaged in a freewheeling, intimate conversation. Sharing vivid stories of his interactions with literary and cultural icons like William Burroughs, Susan Sontag and Allen Ginsberg, Hujar reflects on the rhythms of everyday life in 1970s New York. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/december2025/peterhujarsday_qna_1125

Director David Michôd discusses his new film, Christy, with fellow Director John Lee Hancock in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses making a sports movie with the shadowing story of an abusive relationship ever present, the process of helping Actor Sydney Sweeney get into shape for her fighting scenes, and working with Sweeney and Actor Ben Foster to capture the powder keg dynamic of their relationship scenes. The film tells the true story of Christy Martin, who never imagined life beyond her small-town roots in West Virginia, until she discovered a talent in the boxing ring. But her toughest battles start to unfold outside of the ring as she confronts family, identity, and a relationship that just might become life-or-death. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/december2025/christy_qna_1125

Director Akinola Davies discusses his new film, My Father’s Shadow, with fellow Director Rachel Raimist in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses shooting on celluloid film to capture the beauty of Lagos, the exhaustive process behind casting the two young leading Actors, and finding ways to show the people of Nigeria in a dignified manner that he felt represented the place as he knew it. Screened as part of the DGA’s Global Cinema Series, the film tells the story of Aki and Remi, who reconnect with the father who’s been absent for most of their lives. But the reunion quietly unravels into something deeper as they witness both the city’s magnitude and their father’s daily struggles during the political unrest of the 1993 Nigerian election crisis. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/december2025/myfathersshadow_1025

Director Geeta Gandbhir discusses her new film, The Perfect Neighbor, with fellow Director Yance Ford in a Q&A at the DGA theater in New York. In the conversation, she discusses the process of discovering how she would tell the story through police body cam footage, editing the body cam footage into a cohesive narrative that develops the players and events leading up to the shooting, and finding a pacing for the footage so as not to overwhelm her audience with distressing content. Screened as part of the DGA’s Documentary Series, the film, told mostly through police body cam footage, uses the shooting of a beloved mother of four as a case study to examine Florida's controversial "stand your ground" laws, revealing the consequences that can occur when individuals feel emboldened by the law to act on their fear and prejudice. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/december2025/docseries_theperfectneighbor-1025

Director Kathryn Bigelow discusses her new film, A House of Dynamite, with fellow Director James Gray in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, she discusses working with journalist and Screenwriter Noah Oppenheim to discover the best way to turn this hypothetical into a story, collaborating with her Cinematographer and Actors to capture an unblocked and naturalistic feel to her scenes, and consulting with government experts to portray the transpiring of events with informed data. The film explores a hypothetical situation: When a radar station detects a single, unattributed ICBM headed for Chicago, how do the many levels of the US government use their limited time to identify who is responsible, attempt to disable the warhead, and in the worst case scenario, consider severe retaliatory options. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/december2025/houseofdynamite_qna_1025

Director Scott Cooper discusses his new film, Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere, with fellow Director David O. Russell in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses his vision for the film to stray from the typical biopic formula, using Springsteen’s story as a wider conversation to address topics of therapy and self-reflection, and working with Actor Jeremy Allen White to capture the spirit of Springsteen. The film chronicles the making of Bruce Springsteen’s 1982 album, Nebraska, which emerged as he recorded Born in the USA with the E Street Band. As a young musician on the cusp of global superstardom, the New Jersey rocker struggles to reconcile the pressures of success with the ghosts of his past as he records the benchmark album. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/december2025/springsteendeliverme_qna_1025

Director Guillermo del Toro discusses his new film, Frankenstein, with fellow Director Bradley Cooper in a Q&A at the DGA theater in New York. In the conversation, he discusses the consideration he took in the multiple perspective structure of the story, the research and detail behind crafting intricate props and capturing authentic settings, and what he looked for in an Actor when casting the role of The Creature. Based on the classic novel by Mary Shelley, the film tells the tragic story of the brilliant but egotistical Dr. Victor Frankenstein, who brings a monstrous creature to life. When the experiment spirals out of his control, events transpire that lead to the undoing of both the creator and his creation. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/december2025/frankenstein-1025

Director Joachim Trier discusses his new film, Sentimental Value, with fellow Director Frank Oz in a Q&A at the DGA theater in New York. In the conversation, he discusses working with his Writer to establish just enough of the characters for his Actors to fill in the rest, how he goes about his rehearsal process to get the right performances in the shoot, and taking time in the edit to find the perfect pacing to balance the emotional arcs of the film. Screened as part of the DGA’s Global Cinema Series, the film tells the story of Gustav, a once-renowned film Director looking to make a comeback with his next feature. When his stage actress daughter turns down the lead role in the film, he casts a Hollywood star instead, opening old wounds that force them to face their relationship and the fragile bonds that unite them. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/november2025/gcs_sentimentalvalue_0925

Director Scarlett Johansson discusses her new film, Eleanor the Great, with fellow Director Frank Oz in a Q&A at the DGA theater in New York. In the conversation, she discusses how she sees table reads as essential to getting her Actors on the same wavelength, characteristics she looks for in a Directorial Team, and some of the lessons she learned from Directors when working with them as an Actor. The film tells the story of 94-year-old Eleanor Morgenstein, who moves from her Florida retirement community to Manhattan after losing her best friend of seventy years. Soon after, she meets a group of Holocaust survivors and feels compelled to tell a story about her past that takes on a dangerous life of its own. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/november2025/eleanorthegreat_qna_0925

Director Werner Herzog discusses Les Blank’s film Burden of Dreams, with fellow Director Ondi Timoner in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses the value he saw in Blank documenting the making of Fitzcarraldo, shares further insight into aspects of the shoot the documentary didn’t cover, and reflects on his memories of the late Actor Claudia Cardinale. Screened as part of the DGA’s Documentary Series, the film follows Director Werner Herzog during the filming of Fitzcarraldo, the story of one man’s attempt to build an opera house deep in the Amazonian jungle. As the production unfolds, the crew has to overcome a number of setbacks, including difficult Actors, unpredictable weather and the logistics of getting a boat over a mountain, all with the determination of realizing Herzog’s vision. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/november2025/docseries_burdenofdreams-0925

Director Benny Safdie discusses his new film, The Smashing Machine, with fellow Director Christopher Nolan in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses working with Actors Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt to summon the performances he wanted, collaborating with his composer to craft a jazz score that followed the film’s emotional beats, and how he used his cinematography to capture the interior emotions of his characters. The film tells the true story of, Mark Kerr, a former collegiate wrestler who became a mixed-martial artist and UFC champion during the early, unregulated days of MMA. As he contends with depression, a painkiller addiction, and a volatile relationship with his girlfriend, he continues his meteoric rise in the burgeoning sport. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/november2025/smashingmachine_qna_1025

Director Derek Cianfrance discusses his new film, Roofman, with fellow Director David Gordon Green in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses his process of researching the story by consulting with the real Jeffrey Manchester in prison, working with production to recreate a period accurate Toys”R”Us from 2004, and how he aimed to capture the nostalgia of the early 2000s by choosing to film on 35mm. The film tells the true story of Jeffrey Manchester, a charismatic criminal who goes into hiding on the roof of a Toys “R” Us. Adopting a new identity, he begins to form a relationship with one of the employees, jeopardizing his double life as his past closes in. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/november2025/roofman_qna_0925

Director Jay Roach discusses his new film, The Roses, with fellow Director Jason Reitman in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses working with his Actors to find the right balance of dark comedy and drama in the film, collaborating with his spouse and many other musical artists to craft a soundtrack that fit the film’s tone, and how he approached remaking a foreign film for American audiences that may not receive the content in a similar way. The film tells the story of Ivy and Theo, a couple living a seemingly ideal life with a loving marriage, successful careers and great kids. But when Theo’s career nosedives and Ivy’s ambitions take off, a tinderbox of hidden resentment and fierce competition ignites as the reality of their relationship bubbles to the surface. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/november2025/theroses_qna_0925

Director Paul Thomas Anderson discusses his new film, One Battle After Another, with fellow Director Steven Spielberg in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses how he worked with his Actors to bring to life the distinct characters they inhabited, why Vistavision was the best format to capture the story, and how he discovered the ending sequence by exploring the location. The film follows Bob Ferguson, a former militant now living a quiet life in hiding with his daughter Willa. When Willa goes missing, Bob must track her down with the help of his fellow revolutionaries and battle the consequences of his past. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/november2025/onebattleafteranother_qna_0925a  

Director Rob Reiner discusses his new film, Spinal Tap II: The End Continues, with fellow Director Paul Feig in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses his process of discovering the story in the edit through the Actors’ many improvisational takes, how he aims for a documentary-style feel by forgoing blocking and letting crew appear in the shots, and using real world inspiration of reuniting bands and going viral on the internet as pretext for a sequel. This follow up to the 1984 feature This is Spinal Tap finds documentarian Marty DiBergi once again shadowing the bandmates of Spinal Tap as they reunite after 15 years to put on one final show. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/november2025/spinaltap2_qna_0925  

Director Christopher Leone discusses his new film, Code 3, with fellow Director Etan Cohen in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses collaborating with his co-Writer - who was once a real paramedic - to maintain accuracy, working with his effects team to create realistic wound portrayals, and finding the tone of the film having pulled inspiration from comedy and war films. The film tells the story of Randy, an overworked paramedic who is about to resign. While training his replacement on his the last 24-hour shift, their routine night quickly spirals into a chaotic, citywide odyssey as they race from one emergency to the next. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/october2025/code3_qna_0925

Director Bill Condon discusses his new film, Kiss of the Spider Woman, with fellow Director Greg Berlanti in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses how the interpretations from previous adaptations influenced his vision, how he approached shooting the dream sequences in contrast to the prison scenes, and the complex choreography that went into staging the musical sequences with Actor Jennifer Lopez. This reimagining of the 1976 novel and Tony Award-wining Broadway musical tells the story of Valentín, a political prisoner who shares a cell with Molina, a gay window dresser convicted of public indecency. To escape the grim reality of their incarceration, Molina entertains Valentín by recounting the plot of a Hollywood musical starring his favorite silver screen diva, Ingrid Luna. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/november2025/kissofthespiderwoman_qna_0925

Director Justin Tipping discusses his new film, Him, with fellow Director Jennifer Kaytin Robinson in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses working with his VFX team to create the x-ray scenes and their thematic function, the mixture of rehearsals and sports training he had his Actors go through to prepare for their roles, and putting consideration into the structures and locations of his settings to emphasize feelings of oppression and disorientation. The film tells the story of Cameron “Cam” Cade, a promising young football player who’s invited to train at the isolated compound of legendary quarterback Isaiah White. But things turn unsettling as White takes his protégé on a blood-chilling journey into the pursuit of excellence at all costs. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/october2025/him_qna_0925

Director Oliver Hermanus discusses his new film, The History of Sound, with fellow Director Mike Mills in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses working with his Actors to find little character details that speak to bigger aspects of their selves, how he walks his sets early in the days to discover opportunities for shots, and how working on his first American production differed from his past filmmaking experiences. The film tells the story of Lionel and David, who are determined to record the lives, voices and music of American culture in the shadow of World War I. But as they travel the American countryside in search of music, the two find love with one another instead. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://www.dga.org/events/2025/october2025/historyofsound_qna_0925