1950

Joseph L. Mankiewicz

The Guild negotiates its first television contract. In addition to outlining basic wages and working conditions, the contract recognizes the Director’s right to share in revenue from filmed shows on commercial television. Joseph L. Mankiewicz elected president. Joseph Youngerman named Guild executive secretary. Guild membership reaches 900.

The Man Who Would Be King

King Vidor

King Vidor helped bring directors together to form the Guild and became its first president during the early, perilous years. His legacy as a great filmmaker and fighter for directors' rights continues today.

Director's Cut - 75th Anniversary Video Compilation

Director’s Cut commemorates 75 years of directing history through the compilation of hundreds of clips illustrating the entire range of our members’ work. The focus is on images of directors working—not just the work itself—underscoring to audiences that these lasting images are the result of a director’s vision.

Explore the DGA Visual History Program

In-depth peer-to-peer interviews of veteran Guild members sharing the journey of their artistic and professional careers.